International haplotype mapping project launched 1/11/02. By the Public Health Genetics Unit A new international initiative has been established to develop a haplotype map of the genome.

The theory behind the International HapMap Project is that, within the human genome, different genetic variants within a chromosomal region (haplotypes) tend not to be found in all possible combinations; rather, certain combinations occur together far more commonly than others.

The idea is that differences between haplotypes may be associated with differing susceptibility to disease, so mapping the haplotype structure of the genome would be a useful first step towards identifying the genetic basis of common disease.

Feature: The International HapMap Project

A five-nation consortium has now pledged a total of US$100 million over three years to construct a haplotype map based on 200-400 genetic samples from each of four different populations: the Yorubas in Nigeria; the Japanese; the Han Chinese; and individuals in the US with northern or western European ancestry.

Additional work will be needed to find out whether the common haplotypes identified in these populations are representative of those in other populations, or whether additional populations will need to be included in order to identify the full range of haplotypes.

Plans for the project include measures to ensure that it is conducted according to high ethical standards and protects the interests of participants. The stored DNA samples will have no personal identifiers other than the population of origin.

Article courtesy of the Public Health Genetics Unit .

Image credit: Neil Leslie