The genome-wide association studies from NCHA are often embedded in studies from other consortia. The significance of studies is very much improved by an increase in the number of subjects involved in these studies, up to ten thousands of people. One example of such a collaboration is the international CHARGE consortium. The identification of genes associated with blood pressure, as published online in Nature Genetics in May 2009, is a result from this collaboration.

Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure is 30-60% heritable. This has prompted extensive efforts to identify its genetic underpinnings. Identifying genes associated with blood pressure advances our understanding of blood pressure regulation and highlights potential drug targets for prevention or treatment.