What is another word for quantitative trait locus?
Pronunciation: [kwˈɒntɪtˌe͡ɪtɪv tɹˈe͡ɪt lˈə͡ʊkəs] (IPA) 
Quantitative trait locus (QTL) is a term used in genetics to refer to the location of a gene or set of genes within a chromosome that affect the expression of a quantitative trait. In other words, it is the location of the genetic variation that influences the phenotypic variation in a trait of interest. Some synonyms for QTL include genetic marker, locus, quantitative genetics, genome-wide association study (GWAS), genetic linkage, polygenic inheritance, and heritability. These terms are commonly used in the field of genetics and genomics to describe the genetic basis and variation of complex traits in plants, animals, and humans. Understanding QTLs is important for improving crop productivity, disease resistance, and human health.
