Complex Segregation Analyses: Uses and Limitations

Abstract

Complex segregation analysis (CSA) is a general method for evaluating the transmission of a trait within pedigrees. It proceeds by testing models of varying degrees of generality, both to determine whether a Mendelian locus is likely to exert a large effect on the phenotype of interest and to estimate the magnitude of genetic sources of variation in the trait. This information is valuable both as a prelude to linkage analysis, which generally assumes Mendelian transmission, and in providing a model on which to base parametric linkage methods.