Applications of Digital Computers in Human Genetics

The use of digital computers in genetic analysis of human family and population data is assuming increased importance in recent years. It is now possible to approach problems which would have proved too tedious to be feasible in the past. The application of digital computers in this field may be roughly classified into two aspects: one in which the storage and retrieval of inforrmation constitutes the major operation, and another in which computation for the solution of complex mathematical and statistical problems plays the more important role. A review has been presented on the uses of computers in these areas. Included in the first category are rcord linkage and the calculation of inbreeding coefficients for small isolate populations. However, applications in the second category have been more diverse than in the first. They encompass genetic linkage, segregation analysis, genetic selection and equilibrium, gene frequency analysis, and multivariate procedures. The advantages of these techniques are discussed, and some findings of genetic interest are presented. Undoubtedly, the future use of digital computers in human genetic analysis is not limited to these phases, and further applications are expected.