Genetic dissection of complex traits: guidelines for interpreting and reporting linkage results.

Genetic studies are under way for many complex traits, spurred by the recent feasibility of whole genome scans. Clear guidelines for the interpretation of linkage results are needed to avoid a flood of false positive claims. At the same time, an overly cautious approach runs the risk of causing true hints of linkage to be missed. We address this problem by proposing specific standards designed to maintain rigor while also promoting communication.