Variance components models for gene-environment interaction in quantitative trait locus linkage analysis.
Gene-environment interaction (G x E) is likely to be a common and important source of variation for complex behavioral traits. Gene-environment interaction, or genetic control of sensitivity to the environment, can be incorporated into variance components twin and sib-pair analyses by partitioning genetic effects into a mean part, which is independent of the environment, and a part that is a linear function of the environment. An approach described in a companion paper (Purcell, 2002) is applied to sib-pair variance components linkage analysis in two ways: allowing for quantitative trait locus by environment interaction and utilizing information on any residual interactions detected prior to analysis. As well as elucidating environmental pathways, consideration of G x E in quantitative and molecular studies will potentially direct and enhance gene-mapping efforts.
Purcell
Shaun
S
Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College, London, UK. s.purcell@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Sham
Pak
P
D003198:Computer Simulation; D004777:Environment; D008040:Genetic Linkage; D005824:Genetics, Behavioral; D006801:Humans; D008957:Models, Genetic; D040641:Quantitative Trait Loci / Q000235:genetics*; D014427:Twins / Q000235:genetics*