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A genomic-systems biology map for cardiovascular function
M Stoll1, A W Cowley, P J Tonellato
1Department of Physiology, Bioinformatics Research Center, and, Human and Molecular Genetics Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226-0509, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 27, 2001
Summary
Researchers mapped 81 cardiovascular and renal traits in rats, identifying trait aggregates on specific chromosomes. This systems biology approach aids gene discovery and translation to human genomics.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Systems Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- The availability of the human genome sequence necessitates advanced methods for defining gene function within a systems biology framework.
- Understanding complex trait genetics requires integrating phenotypic data with genomic information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map cardiovascular and renal phenotypes in a rat model to identify genetic loci associated with these traits.
- To utilize a systems biology approach by analyzing physiological correlations for gene discovery and comparative genomics.
Main Methods:
- Studied 239 cardiovascular and renal phenotypes in 113 male rats from an F2 intercross.
- Performed genome-wide mapping of 81 identified traits.
- Analyzed patterns of correlations among traits to establish "physiological profiles".
Main Results:
- Successfully mapped 81 cardiovascular and renal traits to the rat genome.
- Identified significant aggregates of traits on chromosomes 1, 2, 7, and 18.
- Established "physiological profiles" demonstrating trait interrelationships.
Conclusions:
- The identified trait aggregates and physiological profiles provide a foundation for gene hunting in cardiovascular and renal systems.
- This study facilitates mechanism-based physiological research.
- The findings support the translation of rat genomic data to the human genome through comparative genomics.
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