Genomic linkage disequilibrium dissection of house mice population

Mouse models have been extensively used for identification of susceptibility genes to complex trait diseases. Linkage disequilibrium ( LD) has been of great interest in genetic researches because of its utility in association studies of complex traits. Generally, extensive linkage disequilibrium is beneficial to perform gene mapping with a few markers at the initial stage. On the contrary, however, less extensive linkage disequilibrium is critical to perform fine mapping. In this review we introduced linkage disequilibrium and the genetic characteristics of linkage disequilibrium in laboratory mice and wild mice, as well as linkage disequilibrium mapping in association studies for complex traits. Finally, we prospect that both laboratory mice and wild mice have their advantages, and will be important genetic resources for identifying genes in complex traits. Key words: Mus musculus;  Wild mice;  Laboratory mice;  Linkage disequilibrium