A twin-pronged attack on complex traits
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 31, 2026

Candidate Gene Testing in Clinical Cohort Studies with Multiplexed Genotyping and Mass Spectrometry
Published on: June 21, 2018
N Martin1, D Boomsma, G Machin
1Queensland Institute of Medical Research, PO Royal Brisbane Hospital, Australia. nickM@qimr.edu.au
Abstract:
Before one starts the hunt for quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for a complex trait, it is necessary to show that the trait is genetically influenced. This evidence is most likely to come from the classical twin study--the demonstration that monozygotic twins are more similar for the trait than dizygotic twins. The strengths and weaknesses of twin studies are discussed, and it is suggested that, far from becoming irrelevant with advances in molecular biology, they can improve the efficiency of QTL detection and play an important role in unravelling developmental genetic mechanisms.
Related Concept Videos
Multiple Allele Traits
Multiple Allele Traits
Polygenic Traits
Polygenic Traits
Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
Pleiotropy
