GWAS
Pronunciation: GEE-waz
Also written as: GWAS — Genome-Wide Association Studies
Large-scale genetic studies examining associations between genetic variants and psychiatric disorders across the genome.
Full Definition
GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Studies) represent a powerful epidemiological approach that examines millions of genetic variants across the entire genome to identify those associated with psychiatric disorders. These studies typically involve thousands to hundreds of thousands of participants and compare genetic variant frequencies between cases with psychiatric conditions and healthy controls. GWAS have revolutionized psychiatric epidemiology by identifying specific genetic loci contributing to mental health disorders, revealing shared genetic architecture across conditions, and enabling the development of polygenic risk scores. Results from psychiatric GWAS inform understanding of disease mechanisms, population risk stratification, and potential therapeutic targets.
Usage
Usage note: Often used in plural form; distinguish from candidate gene approaches.
In Context
- "The largest GWAS of depression identified 102 genetic loci associated with the disorder." — research publication
- "Meta-analysis of multiple GWAS studies increased statistical power to detect rare variant associations." — methodology paper