Statistical Methods and Software for Substance Use and Dependence Genetic Research

Abstract

Background: Substantial substance use disorders and related health conditions emerged during the mid-20th century and continue to represent a remarkable 21st century global burden of disease. This burden is largely driven by the substance-dependence process, which is a complex process and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. During the past few decades, a great deal of progress has been made in identifying genetic variants associated with Substance Use and Dependence (SUD) through linkage, candidate gene association, genome-wide association and sequencing studies. Methods: Various statistical methods and software have been employed in different types of SUD genetic studies, facilitating the identification of new SUD-related variants. Conclusion: In this article, we review statistical methods and software that are currently available for SUD genetic studies, and discuss their strengths and limitations.