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The genetics of variation in gene expression
Vivian G Cheung1, Richard S Spielman
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA. vcheung@mail.med.upenn.edu
Nature Genetics
|November 28, 2002
Summary
Investigating gene expression variation using microarrays treats gene expression as an inherited trait. This approach aids understanding gene regulation and complex traits in humans.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Gene expression variation is a complex trait.
- Microarrays are a key technology for measuring gene expression.
- Understanding the genetic basis of gene expression is crucial for biological research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the genetic basis of variation in gene expression.
- To establish gene expression as a quantitative trait for genetic analysis.
- To advance the understanding of transcriptional regulation.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing microarrays to measure gene expression levels.
- Applying genetic analysis principles to gene expression data.
- Treating gene expression as an inherited phenotype, analogous to complex traits like height.
Main Results:
- Gene expression can be effectively analyzed as a quantitative genetic trait.
- Studies in experimental organisms have demonstrated the feasibility of this approach.
- Initial steps towards human studies highlight technical and statistical challenges.
Conclusions:
- Genetic analysis of gene expression variation provides insights into transcriptional regulation.
- This approach offers a model for studying other complex inherited traits.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges in human genetic studies of gene expression.