Linkage Disequilibrium

Linkage disequilibrium (LD) refers to the non-random association of gene variants (alleles) at different locations in the genome. When certain combinations of these variants occur together more often than expected by chance, they are said to be in LD. This often happens because the variants are physically close on the same chromosome, making them less likely to be separated during genetic recombination. LD helps scientists identify regions of the genome associated with traits or diseases and provides insight into the genetic structure and history of populations.