Correlations in multi-locus genetic systems: a mathematical model.

A spin model with parallels to a multi-locus genetic model is presented which makes it possible to calculate the correlation between allelic states at any two loci in a population at equilibrium. The main features are: (1) The decay of correlation with distance may be expressed essentially as a linear combination of two exponentials, one of which dominates when the two loci are sufficiently far apart. (2) The correlation between two loci a specified distance apart is increased as the number of loci in the entire system increases. The results are compared with those of other theoretical models and discussed in the light of available experimental data. Possible ways of generalizing the model are outlined. However, additional experimental data is clearly needed to indicate the genetic relevance of work of this nature.