Table of contents

1. Introduction to Genetics51m
2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
8. DNA Replication1h 10m
9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
10. Transcription1h 0m
11. Translation58m
12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
14. Genetic Control of Development44m
15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
16. Transposable Elements47m
17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- Genetic Cloning
  9m
- Methods for Analyzing DNA
  9m
19. Cancer Genetics29m
- Overview of Cancer
  21m
- Cancer Mutations
  7m
20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
21. Population Genetics50m
- Hardy Weinberg
  19m
- Allelic Frequency Changes
  31m
22. Evolutionary Genetics29m

18. Molecular Genetic Tools

Methods for Analyzing DNA

Genetics

18. Molecular Genetic Tools

Methods for Analyzing DNA

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1:51 minutes

Problem 1e

Textbook Question

From GWAS, how do we know which genes are associated with a particular genetic disorder?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Studies): GWAS is a method used to identify genetic variants associated with specific traits or disorders by analyzing the genomes of large groups of individuals. It compares the frequency of genetic markers (such as SNPs) between affected and unaffected individuals.

Collect and prepare data: Gather genomic data from a large population, including individuals with the genetic disorder (cases) and those without it (controls). Ensure the sample size is large enough to provide statistical power for detecting associations.

Perform statistical analysis: Use statistical methods to test for associations between genetic markers (e.g., SNPs) and the disorder. This involves calculating p-values to determine whether the frequency of a particular marker is significantly different between cases and controls.

Interpret significant associations: Identify genetic markers that show strong statistical associations with the disorder. These markers are often located near or within genes that may play a role in the disorder. Use linkage disequilibrium analysis to pinpoint the specific gene or region of interest.

Validate and investigate candidate genes: Conduct further experiments, such as functional studies, to confirm the role of the identified genes in the disorder. This may involve studying gene expression, protein function, or creating model organisms to understand the biological mechanisms involved.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS)

GWAS are research methods used to identify genetic variants associated with specific diseases by scanning the genomes of many individuals. They compare the DNA of individuals with a particular disorder to those without, looking for common genetic markers. This approach helps pinpoint genes that may contribute to the risk of developing certain conditions.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs)

SNPs are the most common type of genetic variation among people, where a single nucleotide in the genome differs between individuals. In GWAS, researchers often focus on SNPs to find associations with diseases, as these variations can influence gene function and contribute to the development of genetic disorders.

Statistical Significance in Genetic Studies

Statistical significance is crucial in GWAS to determine whether the observed associations between genetic variants and diseases are likely due to chance. Researchers use p-values and other statistical measures to assess the strength of these associations, ensuring that the findings are reliable and can be replicated in independent studies.

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Textbook Question

The two gels illustrated contain dideoxynucleotide DNA-sequencing information for a wild-type segment and mutant segment of DNA corresponding to the N-terminal end of a protein. The start codon and the next five codons are sequenced.

Write the DNA sequence of both alleles, including strand polarity.

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Multiple Choice

In terms of molecular biology, what is a library?

If you had a sample of RNA to analyze, which of the following techniques would you most likely use?

What is CODIS? Describe the four most important features of genetic markers used in this system.

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Textbook Question

How does a positive ASO test for sickle-cell anemia determine that an individual is homozygous recessive for the mutation that causes sickle-cell anemia?

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Textbook Question

Compare and contrast the terms Paternity Index (PI) and Combined Paternity Index (CPI). How does each contribute to paternity determination?

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Textbook Question

What is the exclusion principle? How is it used in forensic genetic analysis and in paternity determination?

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Textbook Question

What is the statistical principle underlying genetic health risk assessment? Why are these assessments not predictive of disease occurrence?