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The genetics of variation in gene expression

Nature Genetics volume 32, pages 522–525 (2002)Cite this article

Abstract

The genetic basis of variation in gene expression lends itself to investigation by microarrays. For genetic analysis, we view the expression level of a gene as a quantitative or 'complex' trait, analogous to an individual's height or cholesterol level, and, therefore, as an inherited phenotype. Several genetic analyses of 'gene expression phenotypes' have been carried out in experimental organisms, and initial steps have been taken toward similar studies in humans—although these present challenging technical and statistical problems. Further advances in the genetic analysis of variation in gene expression will contribute to our understanding of transcriptional regulation and will provide models for studying other quantitative and complex traits.

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Figure 1: Microarray analysis of genetic variation.

Katie Ris

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Acknowledgements

We thank H. Kazazian for comments on the manuscript, and A. Downend for assistance in manuscript preparation. This work is supported by grants from the US National Institutes of Health.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, Pennsylvania, USA

    Vivian G. Cheung

  2. Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, Pennsylvania, USA

    Vivian G. Cheung & Richard S. Spielman

  3. The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, 19104, Pennsylvania, USA

    Vivian G. Cheung

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  1. Vivian G. Cheung
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  2. Richard S. Spielman
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Correspondence to Vivian G. Cheung.

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Cheung, V., Spielman, R. The genetics of variation in gene expression. Nat Genet 32 (Suppl 4), 522–525 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/ng1036

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