Understanding the role that genetics has in phenotypic and disease variation, and its potential interactions with other factors, is crucial for a better understanding of human biology. It is hoped that this will lead to more successful drug development1, and potentially to more efficient and personalized treatments. As such, a key component of the UK Biobank resource has been the collection of genome-wide genetic data on every participant using a purpose-designed genotyping array2. An interim release of genotype data on approximately 150,000 UK Biobank participants in May 20153 has already facilitated numerous studies4–6.
