Genome wide linkage analysis using high density SNP arrays
In collaboration with MR1, we have previously performed a whole genome scan in 89 obese families with our 10 cM microsatellite panel (Saar et al. 2003). This was the first linkage analysis performed in childhood and adolescent obese patients. A second sample of 76 families was included when putative linkage regions (LOD scores > 0.7) were reanalysed with a more dense marker set (< 5 cM). As part of the NeuroNetwork Obesity and Related Disorders, we want to perform a new genome scan with a high-density SNP panel (> 10,000) in about 300 families with early onset obesity comprising a total of 1300 individuals using Affymetrix chip technology. This sample includes the previous family samples, thus allowing a direct comparison of the results obtained with the different marker sets. We want to explore the utility of 10K mapping arrays in routine linkage studies aiming at setting a new standard in terms of speed, completeness and resource management. It is expected that this study will influence the design of future mapping projects. Moreover, the new scan will substantiate the identification of candidate gene regions for obesity in humans.
