Variance Components Models for Gene–Environment Interaction in Quantitative Trait Locus Linkage Analysis

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Gene–environment interaction (G × E) is likely to be a common and important source of variation for complex behavioral traits. Gene–environment interaction, or genetic control of sensitivity to the environment, can be incorporated into variance components twin and sib-pair analyses by partitioning genetic effects into a mean part, which is independent of the environment, and a part that is a linear function of the environment. An approach described in a companion paper (Purcell, 2002) is applied to sib-pair variance components linkage analysis in two ways: allowing for quantitative trait locus by environment interaction and utilizing information on any residual interactions detected prior to analysis. As well as elucidating environmental pathways, consideration of G × E in quantitative and molecular studies will potentially direct and enhance gene-mapping efforts.