Bias in Linkage Statistics Due to Linkage Disequilibrium
Author Information
Author(s): Ellen L Goode, Michael D Badzioch, Gail P Jarvik
Primary Institution: Cancer Prevention Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Hypothesis
Does increased intermarker linkage disequilibrium affect allele-sharing measures and linkage statistics in genetic analysis?
Conclusion
The study found that intermarker linkage disequilibrium can inflate allele-sharing estimates and linkage statistics, suggesting that methods to reduce this bias are necessary.
Supporting Evidence
- Intermarker linkage disequilibrium was found to inflate allele-sharing estimates.
- Removing markers in linkage disequilibrium reduced the upward bias in estimates.
- Linkage statistics were biased upwards in regions with linkage disequilibrium.
Takeaway
When scientists look for genes that cause diseases, they need to be careful because some markers can confuse their results if they are too close together.
Methodology
The study used simulated data from 100 nuclear families to analyze the effects of linkage disequilibrium on allele-sharing measures and linkage statistics.
Potential Biases
Potential for false-positive results due to overestimation of allele frequencies in the presence of linkage disequilibrium.
Limitations
Only 100 replicates were examined, and the analysis was limited to specific parameters and nuclear families.
Participant Demographics
The study used simulated data from 100 nuclear families with specific traits.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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