A new test for linkage in the presence of locus heterogeneity

The detection of linkage in complex traits, although potentially of the greatest value, has proved very difficult. One reason may be the drastic effect that locus heterogeneity has on statistical power. We propose a new test for linkage in the presence of heterogeneity, based upon the sum of individ...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of human genetics 1992-06, Vol.50 (6), p.1259-1266
Main Authors: MacLean, C J, Ploughman, L M, Diehl, S R, Kendler, K S
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
computer programmes
Female
genes
Genetic Carrier Screening
Genetic Diseases, Inborn - genetics
Genetic Linkage
heterogeneity
Humans
linkage
loci
Male
Pedigree
Probability
statistical genetics
testing
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Summary:The detection of linkage in complex traits, although potentially of the greatest value, has proved very difficult. One reason may be the drastic effect that locus heterogeneity has on statistical power. We propose a new test for linkage in the presence of heterogeneity, based upon the sum of individual pedigree maximum lod scores, combined with a bootstrap method for estimating the null-hypothesis distribution. The technique is designed to exploit modern computer capability and to avoid reliance on asymptotic-distribution theory. Numerical comparisons indicate that for small pedigrees this new test can detect linkage with 30%-50% less data than are required by standard methods. A computer program for simulating the distribution and for performing the test of linkage is available from the authors.
ISSN:0002-9297
1537-6605