Linkage Analysis of Alcoholism Phenotypes on Chromosome 2
Author Information
Author(s): Howard W Wiener, Rodney CP Go, Hemant Tiwari, George Varghese
Primary Institution: University of Alabama at Birmingham
Hypothesis
Can more specific definitions of alcoholism improve the consistency of linkage analysis results?
Conclusion
Using more specific definitions of alcoholism led to more robust and consistent linkage results on chromosome 2.
Supporting Evidence
- Linkage analyses using latent variables were more consistent than those based on DSM criteria.
- A region on chromosome 2 at 250 cM was linked to derived phenotypes.
- SNP fine mapping confirmed linkage signals in the same region.
Takeaway
The study looked at how defining alcoholism in different ways can change the results of genetic studies, and found that clearer definitions help find the right genes linked to alcoholism.
Methodology
Model-free linkage analyses were performed using SIBPAL and combined microsatellite and SNP data.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification bias due to varying definitions of alcoholism.
Limitations
The study's p-values are not valid due to the non-independence of family members.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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