Λεξικό .. Candidate gene

Candidate gene

Gene associated with variation in a trait and believed to be involved with the development or physiology of the trait. A gene that has been implicated in causing or contributing to the development of a particular disease. [NHLBI]. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). candidate genes Focus on particular SNPs thought to have a functional effect. Within family studies SNPs spanning several generations can show relationships between a disease and a candidate gene or a chromosomal region.

Focuses on particular coding regions of the genome. Involves less sequencing overall and is more likely to uncover SNPs that, in addition to serving as markers, have functional implications and thus may shed light on biochemical mechanisms. [CHI SNPs report] Allergic asthma is an increasingly common disease of complex inheritance. Several studies have suggested candidate regions, but genetic heterogeneity, ethnic differences and varying study designs may in part explain the lack of identified and confirmed susceptibility gene.

Invesstigation of different populations will further clarify the topic. Haagerup, A et al, 2002, evaluated allergic asthma and increased total and specific IgE in 39, 45 and 57 sib-pairs from 100 Danish allergy families. They found evidence for two new asthma and atopy loci, 1p36 and 3q21-q22, and supported linkage in the Danish population to seven previously reported candidate regions.

References

Haagerup A, Bjerke T, Schiøtz PO, Binderup HG, Dahl R, Kruse TA. Asthma and atopy - a total genome scan for susceptibility genes. Allergy. 2002 Aug;57(8):680-6