Quantitative Trait Analysis in the Investigation of Function and Aging of Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Extensive genetically determined quantitative variation exists in the number and function of hematopoietic stem cells in inbred mouse strains. Furthermore, aging of hematopoietic stem cells is genetically determined. Gene identification of quantitative trait loci involved in the regulation and aging of hematopoietic stem cells would provide novel insights into regulatory mechanisms that are relevant in vivo and may be clinically important. Here we describe strategies for mapping and gene identification of quantitative trait loci applied to traits contributing to the regulation of hematopoietic stem cells.