Linkage analysis and long QT syndrome. Using genetics to study cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND

Recombinant DNA technologies have facilitated the development of a set of polymorphic DNA markers covering the human genome. General linkage analysis in families predisposed to inherited disease is now feasible. Linkage analysis can help identify a disease gene even when relatively little is known about the disorder.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using this approach, we have identified linkage between a gene that causes the long QT syndrome and DNA markers on chromosome 11.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of the chromosomal location of the long QT locus is the first step in defining the specific mutations that cause this disease.