Experimental designs for detecting linkage disequilibrium-power of association studies to achieve a given Bayes factor.
by
Roderick D. Ball
New Zealand Forest Research Institute

A method is given for design of experiments to detect associations (linkage disequilibrium) in a random population between a marker and a quantitative trait locus (QTL), or gene, with a given strength of evidence, as defined by the Bayes factor. Using a version of the Bayes factor which can be linked to the value of an F-statistic together with an existing deterministic power calculation, makes it possible to rapidly evaluate a comprehensive range of scenarios, demonstrating the feasibility, or otherwise, of detecting genes of small effect. The Bayes factor is advocated for use in determining optimal strategies for selecting candidate genes for further testing or applications. The prospects for fine scale mapping of QTL are re-evaluated in this framework.

Date received: May 27, 2002