I have been working on a modified version of the LINKAGE
programs which computes lodscores that are very similar (and in
some circumstances identical) to those computed by Neil Risch's
maximum lodscore method (for reference on the MLS method see Am
J Hum Genet 46:242-253, 1990). The programs can handle any number
of affected relatives in arbitary pedigree structures (with
the usual practical limits familiar to LINKAGE users). Multiple
markers can also be analyzed to construct location maps. Estimates
of recurrence risks ratios (lambda ratios) for the disease locus can be
made. This program, in effect, offers an "IBD" alternative to the
IBS methods incorporated in the KIN program of Weeks and Lange.
I am currently testing the programs and would be interested in hearing
from any groups that are interested in linkage analysis of complex traits
and might be interested in analyzing datasets in this way.
Martin Farrall
e-mail: mfarrall at rpms.ac.uk
phone: +44 (0)81 743 2030 Ext. 4253
FAX: +44 (0)81 749 8341
