Causal inference of regulator-target pairs by gene mapping of expression phenotypes

Recently several data sets of both whole genome genotype and expression data have been published [1-4]. In a major departure from conventional genetic trait analysis, now 10(5) to 10(6) phenotypic traits are represented by distinct gene expression measurements. Theoretically, chromosomal regions can be linked to the expression of each of the many measured genes. Thus, this data provides the basis for determining the role of genetic variation in differential gene expression and the identification of polymorphic genes that regulate, directly or indirectly, transcriptional control.