Contribution of Genome-Wide Association Studies to Scientific Research: A Pragmatic Approach to Evaluate Their Impact
Vito A. G. Ricigliano, Renato Umeton, Lorenzo Germinario, Eleonora Alma, Martina Briani, Noemi Di Segni Dalma Montesanti, Giorgia Pierelli, Fabiana Cancrini, Cristiano Lomonaco, Francesca Grassi, Gabriella Palmieri, Marco Salvetti
PLOS ONE, August 14, 2013
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071198
Abstract:
The factual value of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for the understanding of multifactorial diseases is a matter of intense debate. Practical consequences for the development of more effective therapies do not seem to be around the corner. Here we propose a pragmatic and objective evaluation of how much new biology is arising from these studies, with particular attention to the information that can help prioritize therapeutic targets.