3. QTL at RGD Minimum data Peak marker – both flanking markers preferred
Measurable trait, phenotype
LOD score and/or p-value
Assay/method of measurement
Strains and crosses information
Nomenclature
Use author’s nomenclature where possible – encourage prepublication submission
Standardize and number to existing traits
Avoid gene symbols
Don’t use disease terms
Separate QTLs
Different crosses and strains
Narrowing of QTL region - congenics
Each experiment is new QTL – congenic strain developed to confirm previous QTL
Similar study in 2 labs
Same study with 2 different genetic locations
More than one trait to location but not shown to be correlated

7. Issues with Current Traits
Aren’t intuitive or don’t follow logical pattern or hierarchy
Sometimes include method of measurement
Sometimes include qualifiers
Arbitrary categories with overlap

11. QTL Issues and New Directions at RGD
Lack of consistent standards for QTL identification and inclusion
Currently use LOD of 2.8 for QTL
Use lower load for “suggestive” QTL, depends on submission by author or discussion in paper
Mapping issues
QTLs with only peak marker
SSLPs which aren’t mapped to current assembly
SSLPs which will lose/have lost mapping status with subsequent assemblies
Traits
Logical
Hierarchical
Can be used cross-species
Relate well to human clinical measurements