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Published on: August 21, 2016
Family based studies and genetic epidemiology: theory and practice
J H Barrett1, N A Sheehan, A Cox
1Genetic Epidemiology Division, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
Human Heredity
|May 4, 2007
Summary
Population-based family studies are crucial for understanding common diseases, integrating epidemiological and genetic methods. Their feasibility depends on specific population and disease factors, requiring large sample sizes for genetic and environmental analysis.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
- Population Health
Background:
- Family-based studies have been successful for monogenic and oligogenic diseases.
- Research is shifting towards identifying genes for common diseases, necessitating large population samples.
- Population-based family study designs offer a way to analyze gene-environment interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the costs, requirements, and advantages of population-based family study designs.
- To discuss the integration of epidemiological and genetic methods for common disease research.
- To assess the feasibility of population-based family studies for complex disease genetics.
Main Methods:
- The study summarizes a symposium held in August 2006 at The University of Sheffield.
- Discussion focused on integrating population-based approaches with methods for analyzing correlations between relatives.
- Consideration of population- and disease-specific factors influencing study feasibility.
Main Results:
- Population-based family studies can facilitate the analysis of both genetic and environmental effects.
- These studies combine classic epidemiology with methods for analyzing correlations among relatives.
- The feasibility of such designs is contingent on specific population and disease characteristics.
Conclusions:
- Population-based family studies are essential for advancing the understanding of common disease genetics.
- Effective implementation requires careful consideration of logistical and disease-specific factors.
- These integrated approaches hold significant potential for future genetic research.
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