most candidate gene studies have been underpowered and replication of findings has been rare. More recently, the availability of DNA microarrays have enabled genomewide association studies (GWAS) that do not rely on prior hypotheses. The GWAS approach allows for the analysis of a million or more variants across the entire genome. The ultimate goal of these genetic association studies is to improve diagnosis, prevention, and treatment through a nuanced understanding of the genetic underpinnings of the disease.
