easyLINKAGE-Plus - Automated linkage analyses using large-scale SNP data

Abstract

Summary: We extended the original easyLINKAGE program by enabling linkage analyses for large-scale SNP data in addition to those of microsatellites. We implemented new modules for Allegro, Merlin, SimWalk, GeneHunter Imprinting, GeneHunter TwoLocus, SuperLink and extended FastSLink by automatic loop breaking and new outputs. We added conditional linkage analyses as well as multipoint simulation studies, and extended error test routines by checking for Mendelian/non-Mendelian genotyping errors and for deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Data can be analyzed in sets of markers, in defined centimorgan intervals and by using different allele frequency algorithms. The outputs consist of genome-wide as well as chromosomal postscript plots of LOD scores, NPL scores, P-values and other parameters. © The Author 2005. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.