Genes to Diseases (G2D) Computational Method to Identify Asthma Candidate Genes
2008

Identifying Genes Linked to Asthma

Sample size: 1167 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Tremblay Karine, Lemire Mathieu, Potvin Camille, Tremblay Alexandre, Hunninghake Gary M., Raby Benjamin A., Hudson Thomas J., Perez-Iratxeta Carolina, Andrade-Navarro Miguel A., Laprise Catherine

Primary Institution: Laval University

Hypothesis

Can a computational tool help identify candidate genes for asthma genetic association studies?

Conclusion

The study found a significant association between the PTPRE gene and allergic asthma, suggesting it may play a protective role.

Supporting Evidence

  • The G2D tool was effective in selecting candidate genes linked to asthma.
  • Ten candidate genes were identified for further association studies.
  • PTPRE rs7081735 showed a significant association with allergic asthma.
  • The study utilized a family-based association test to analyze genetic data.
  • Sequencing revealed additional polymorphisms around the significant SNP.
  • The findings suggest a protective role of PTPRE in asthma.
  • Results were not replicated in the Childhood Asthma Management Program cohort.
  • Further research is needed to understand the role of PTPRE in asthma.

Takeaway

Researchers used a computer program to find genes that might be linked to asthma, and they discovered one gene that seems to help protect against it.

Methodology

The study combined genome-wide scans with a computational tool to prioritize candidate genes for asthma.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the specific population studied, which is a founder population.

Limitations

The association found in the study was not replicated in an independent cohort, suggesting variability in asthma genetics.

Participant Demographics

The study involved individuals from the Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean region, predominantly with a history of asthma.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.000463

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0002907

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication