A comparison of deep multiomics profiles across ethnicity, geography, and age
Summary
Despite extensive research, molecular differences in human populations and the influence of ancestry, age, geography, and diet are poorly understood. We performed comprehensive multiomics profiling (including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, metallomics, glycomics, and microbiomics) on samples from 322 healthy individuals of European, East Asian, and South Asian ancestry across multiple continents. We identified ethnicity-associated molecular features linked
Content
# A comparison of deep multiomics profiles across ethnicity, geography, and age
*Published: 2026 May 14*
Despite extensive research, molecular differences in human populations and the
influence of ancestry, age, geography, and diet are poorly understood. We
performed comprehensive multiomics profiling (including genomics,
transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, metallomics, glycomics,
and microbiomics) on samples from 322 healthy individuals of European, East
Asian, and South Asian ancestry across multiple continents. We identified
ethnicity-associated molecular features linked to host metabolism, autoimmune
disease risk, drug metabolism, and neurodegenerative pathways. We uncovered
ancestry- and geography-related molecular changes affecting metabolism, immune
function, microbiome composition, and biological aging. Specific genetic
variants and gene expression differences were associated with lipid metabolism
and immune regulation. Geography influenced biological age: East Asians showed
lower biological age in their ancestral regions, whereas individuals of European
ancestry exhibited lower biological age in the US/Canada than in Europe.
Diet-microbiome metabolism interactions displayed ethnicity-specific patterns,
many related to health. This open access resource advances understanding of
ethnicity-environment interactions and supports precision medicine.
DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2026.04.032