Funmap2: an R package for QTL mapping using longitudinal phenotypes

Abstract

QTL mapping is a powerful tool to infer the complexity of the genetic architecture underlying phenotypic traits, and has been extended to include longitudinal traits measured at multiple temporal/spatial points. Here, we introduce the R package Funmap2 based on the functional mapping framework, which integrates biological prior knowledge into the statistical model. Specifically, the functional mapping framework is engineered to include longitudinal curves that describes the genetic effects, and the covariance matrix of the trait of interest. Funmap2 may automatically choose the type of longitudinal curve and covariance matrix by information criterion. Funmap2 is available for download at https://github.com/wzhy2000/Funmap2.