genome-wide association study (GWAS)

http://www.genome.gov/20019523

What is a genome-wide association study (GWAS)?

A genome-wide association study is an approach that involves rapidly scanning markers across the complete sets of DNA, or genomes, of many people to find genetic variations associated with a particular disease. Once new genetic associations are identified, researchers can use the information to develop better strategies to detect, treat and prevent the disease. Such studies are particularly useful in finding genetic variations that contribute to common, complex diseases, such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and mental illnesses.

The International HapMap Project is an organization whose goal is to develop a haplotype map (HapMap) of the human genome, which will describe the common patterns of human genetic variation. The HapMap is expected to be a key resource for researchers to find genetic variants affecting health, disease and responses to drugs and environmental factors. The information produced by the project is made freely available to researchers around the world.

http://www.genesandenvironment.nih.gov/genetics/