Genomic analysis I: inheritance units and genetic selection in the rapid discovery of locus linked DNA markers.

We propose, and test using a Monte-Carlo analysis (a computer-based numerical analysis using a random number generator), a novel and efficient method to obtain sets of DNA markers linked to any inherited genetic locus. The method consists of a targeted search that is based on the common inheritance among members of an outbred pedigree, of discrete chromosome lengths, which we call inheritance units, to obtain DNA markers linked to the locus. In cases where two individuals inherit the same trait through two different lines of descent from a common ancestor, the set of inheritance units in each of the two genomes includes an inheritance unit that is identical in both individuals for a substantial distance on both sides of the DNA sequence which confers the trait. The power of the technique derives from the genetic selection that reduces the size and number of the inheritance units as the generational distance between the two individuals being compared increases.