GENETIC ASSOCIATION Meaning and
Definition
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Genetic association refers to the observed correlation between genetic variants, or alterations in DNA sequence, and particular phenotypic traits or diseases in a given population. It is an approach used in genetics and genomics research to investigate the potential involvement of specific genetic factors in the development, progression, or manifestation of various traits or diseases.
In genetic association studies, scientists analyze the frequencies of specific genetic variants in individuals with a particular trait or disease (cases) and compare them to those frequencies in individuals without the trait or disease (controls). If the frequency of a specific genetic variant is significantly different between the two groups, it suggests a potential association between that variant and the trait or disease being studied.
These studies often involve large-scale genotyping or sequencing of genetic variants across the genome to identify potential associations. The analysis usually includes statistical methods to determine the significance of the observed associations and account for confounding factors such as population stratification or gene-gene interactions.
Genetic association studies have been instrumental in identifying genetic risk factors for countless diseases and traits, including complex disorders like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. They have contributed to our understanding of the genetic basis of human variation and disease susceptibility and have implications for personalized medicine, risk prediction, and the development of targeted therapies. However, it is worth noting that genetic association does not necessarily imply causation, as the observed associations may be due to linkage disequilibrium or genetic correlations with other unmeasured factors.
Etymology of GENETIC ASSOCIATION
The word "genetic" is derived from the Greek word "genetikos", which means "genitive, generative, or creative". It is related to the Greek word "genesis", meaning "birth" or "origin". "Association", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "associare", which means "to join" or "to unite". Therefore, the etymology of the term "genetic association" can be understood as the joining or uniting of genetic factors or attributes.
