Genetic epidemiology

Genetic epidemiology is a scientific discipline that involves the study of the role of genetic factors in determining health and disease in families and in populations, and the interplay of such genetic factors with environmental factors. Genetic epidemiology seeks to derive a statistical and quantitative analysis of how genetics work in large groups.

Overview

Genetic epidemiology utilizes a number of methodologies from both genetics and epidemiology such as population genetics, statistical genetics and genetic modeling. This field of study aims to make sense of the impact of genes on health and disease in families and populations, and how these genes interact with each other and with the environment.

History

The field of genetic epidemiology emerged in the late 20th century, as a development from the fields of epidemiology, biostatistics, and human genetics. The term "genetic epidemiology" was first introduced in 1977.

Methodologies

Genetic epidemiology employs a number of methods from both genetics and epidemiology to fulfill its aims. These include linkage analysis, association analysis, gene-environment interaction, genetic heterogeneity, segregation analysis, and twin studies.

Applications

The applications of genetic epidemiology are vast and include areas such as cancer genetics, pharmacogenetics, behavioral genetics, bioinformatics, forensic genetics, gene therapy, and genetic counseling.

See also

• Genetic association
• Genome-wide association study
• Mendelian randomization
• Population genetics
• Quantitative genetics

External links

• International Genetic Epidemiology Society