Challenges of genetic diversity and the use of high throughput genotyping in genetic epidemiology

Abstract

This paper provides a discussion of the challenges in studies of genetic variation in epidemiology represented by the vast complexity of genetic variation. Choices of design and targets of the right genetic markers could be essential for detection of genetic susceptibility. Identification of genetic variation that is likely to be involved in the biological pathway of a particular condition could be of vital importance. A review is given of current use of genetic variation of a series of genes (TP53, GST, CYP) in studies of genetic susceptibility. Approaches to studies of gene-environment interaction involving exposure to endocrine disrupters are discussed. Finally the paper discusses new developments in the methodology for high throughput genotyping. Such techniques are assumed to be of particular relevance for larger epidemiological studies.

Leder

“…To av artiklene i dette nummeret omhandler de nye molekylaergenetiske metodene og er skrevet av molekylaergenetikere for epidemiologer (1,2). Artiklene fra Spurkland og Harbo og fra Kristensen gir både en oversikt over genetiske analysemetoder og diskusjon av hvordan disse er relevante for epidemiologisk forskning.…”