Comparing SNP and Microsatellite Maps for Genetic Analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Hinrichs Anthony L, Bertelsen Sarah, Bierut Laura J, Dunn Gerald, Jin Carol H, Kauwe John S, Suarez Brian K
Primary Institution: Washington University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Are SNP maps more informative than microsatellite maps for linkage analysis?
Conclusion
SNP maps generally provide higher and more uniform information content than microsatellite maps, despite requiring significantly more computational resources.
Supporting Evidence
- SNP maps had higher and more uniform information content across chromosome 7 compared to microsatellites.
- The Affymetrix and Illumina SNP maps provided almost identical information.
- SNP maps required 100 times as many iterations as microsatellite maps to produce stable estimates.
Takeaway
This study found that using SNPs instead of microsatellites can give better information for understanding genetics, but it takes a lot more computer power to do it.
Methodology
The study used LOKI software to generate identity-by-descent matrices for SNP and microsatellite maps, focusing on chromosome 7.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of non-White pedigrees and reliance on self-reported ethnicity.
Limitations
The analysis was restricted to chromosome 7 and only included White pedigrees, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
77% White, 13% African American, and 10% from other ethnicities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.3
Statistical Significance
p = 0.3
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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