Introductory guide to the language of molecular genetics.
BACKGROUND
This special section on molecular genetics was invited in order to raise awareness of the potential of molecular genetic approaches to inform child psychologists, psychiatrists and related professionals. As much of the terminology is specific to the field, this introductory guide aims to aid readers who may be unfamiliar with the approaches of this discipline.


METHODS
Basic terminology and genetic processes are described, with sections covering 'The Human Genome' and 'Genetic Markers'.


RESULTS
The range of genetic markers is growing all the time, but those that are thought to be functional and/or are highly variable are particularly useful.


CONCLUSIONS
Genotyping approaches that offer high efficiency, thus allowing for large numbers of genotypes on large numbers of individuals, are likely to come to the fore in the next few years.
Eley
Thalia C
TC
Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK. t.eley@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Craig
Ian W
IW
D005819:Genetic Markers; D015894:Genome, Human; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D008967:Molecular Biology; D009626:Terminology as Topic
D005819:Genetic Markers