Showing papers by "Margaret Lock published in 2011"
TL;DR: It is argued that in connection with common adult onset disorders in which susceptibility genes with low predictive power are implicated it is unlikely that family relationships will be radically altered as a result of learning about either individual or family genotypes, but pre-existing family dynamics and ideas about family susceptibilities for disease may be reinforced.
63 citations
TL;DR: Using Alzheimer’s disease as an illustrative example, it is shown how population databases of AD cases on which individual risk estimates are based are faulty due to confusion about the AD phenotype.
Abstract: As genetic tests become cheaper and more readily available, pressure is increasing to routinely test individuals for susceptibility genes for complex common disorders. Using Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as an illustrative example, it is shown how population databases of AD cases on which individual risk estimates are based are faulty due to confusion about the AD phenotype. Furthermore, the APOEe4 genotype associated with increased risk of AD is neither necessary nor sufficient to cause AD. The article concludes with ethnographic findings that result from interviews with individuals who have been tested for their APOE status.
40 citations