Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
12:31
In Vivo Modeling of the Morbid Human Genome using Danio rerio
Published on: August 24, 2013
Genetic approaches to studying common diseases and complex traits
1Program in Genomics and Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. joel.hirschhorn@childrens.harvard.edu
Pediatric Research
|April 9, 2005
Summary
Identifying genes for complex human traits is challenging due to multiple genetic and environmental factors. New genetic tools and association studies offer powerful methods for gene mapping, but careful interpretation is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Human Genetics
- Population Genetics
- Genomic Research
Background:
- Complex genetic traits, influenced by numerous genetic and environmental factors, determine common diseases and quantitative human phenotypes.
- Identifying specific genes contributing to population-level variation in these complex traits presents a significant scientific challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the challenges and emerging methodologies for mapping genes underlying complex human traits.
- To highlight the potential of genetic association studies, leveraging new genetic variant databases and genotyping technologies.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing databases of common genetic variants and understanding genetic variation patterns.
- Employing rapid genotyping methodologies for genetic association studies.
- Considering population genetic methods, such as identifying genes under selection.
Main Results:
- Emerging genetic resources and technologies are poised to significantly advance genetic association studies for complex traits.
- Careful execution and interpretation are essential for the success of these gene mapping efforts.
- Candidate gene selection and precise phenotype definition are critical factors influencing study outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Genetic association studies, supported by advanced tools, offer a promising avenue for mapping genes related to complex diseases and traits.
- Strategic approaches, including candidate gene selection and population genetic analyses, are vital for successful gene discovery in human populations.
More Related Videos
11:35Screening for Functional Non-coding Genetic Variants Using Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) and DNA-affinity Precipitation Assay (DAPA)
Published on: August 21, 2016
05:53Candidate Gene Testing in Clinical Cohort Studies with Multiplexed Genotyping and Mass Spectrometry
Published on: June 21, 2018
Related Concept Videos
01:43Incomplete Dominance
Gregor Mendel's work (1822 - 1884) was primarily focused on pea plants. Through his initial experiments, he determined that every gene in a diploid cell has two variants called alleles inherited from each parent. He suggested that amongst these two alleles, one allele is dominant in character and the other recessive. The combination of alleles determines the phenotype of a gene in an organism.
01:18Polygenic Traits
When more than one gene is responsible for a given phenotype, the trait is considered polygenic. Human height is a polygenic trait. Studies have uncovered hundreds of loci that influence height, and there are believed to be many more. Due to the high number of genes involved, as well as environmental and nutritional factors, height varies significantly within a given population. The distribution of height forms a bell-shaped curve, with relatively few individuals in the population at the...
01:11Genome-wide Association Studies-GWAS
Genome-wide association studies or GWAS are used to identify whether common SNPs are associated with certain diseases. Suppose specific SNPs are more frequently observed in individuals with a particular disease than those without the disease. In that case, those SNPs are said to be associated with the disease. Chi-square analysis is performed to check the probability of the allele likely to be associated with the disease.
GWAS does not require the identification of the target gene involved in...
GWAS does not require the identification of the target gene involved in...
01:29Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets
Advances in genomics have profoundly influenced drug discovery by increasing both the speed and accuracy of pharmaceutical development. Pharmacogenomics, which examines how genetic variation influences drug response, facilitates the identification of novel therapeutic targets and enables patient stratification for personalized treatment. These strategies contribute to improved drug efficacy, minimized adverse effects, and more efficient clinical trial design.Mapping genetic differences...
01:28Human Genetics
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
01:23Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
Behavior genetics explores how genetic inheritance influences human behavior. It focuses on how genes, passed from parents to offspring, contribute to the development of behavioral traits and tendencies. This branch of genetics seeks to understand the complex interplay between inherited genetic factors and environmental influences in shaping our behaviors.
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...