Many traits of economic or medical significance are determined by quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in which many genes, usually scattered throughout the genome, contribute to expression.

What general procedures are used to identify such loci?

Key Concepts

Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL)

Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) are specific regions of the genome that are associated with the variation in a quantitative trait, which is a trait that can be measured and expressed numerically, such as height or blood pressure. QTLs typically involve multiple genes, each contributing a small effect to the overall phenotype. Understanding QTLs is crucial for identifying genetic factors that influence complex traits in both agricultural and medical contexts.

Linkage Mapping

Linkage mapping is a genetic technique used to identify the location of QTLs by analyzing the inheritance patterns of traits in relation to known genetic markers. By studying the co-segregation of traits and markers in a population, researchers can estimate the position of QTLs on chromosomes. This method is essential for pinpointing the genetic basis of traits and is often used in plant and animal breeding programs.

Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS)

Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) are research approaches that involve scanning the entire genome for genetic variants associated with specific traits. By comparing the genomes of individuals with and without a trait, researchers can identify SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) that correlate with the trait's expression. GWAS have become a powerful tool in identifying QTLs, particularly for complex diseases and traits in human populations.