Accurate phenotyping: Reconciling approaches through Bayesian model averaging.

ABSTRACT: Genetic research into complex diseases is frequently hindered by a lack of clear biomarkers for phenotype ascertainment. Phenotypes for such diseases are often identified on the basis of clinically defined criteria; however such criteria may not be suitable for understanding the genetic composition of the diseases. Various statistical approaches have been proposed for phenotype definition; however our previous studies have shown that differences in phenotypes estimated using different approaches have substantial impact on subsequent analyses. Instead of obtaining results based upon a single model, we propose a new method, using Bayesian model averaging to overcome problems associated with phenotype definition. Although Bayesian model averaging has been used in other fields of research, thi

SUBMITTER: Chen CC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5396931 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature