MapMaker

MapMaker is a cool set of tools that lets you create genetic linkage maps and do some gene mapping. It’s super handy for researchers and anyone interested in genetics!

What’s Inside MapMaker?

This software comes in a lightweight package with two main command line tools: MAPMAKER/EXP and MAPMAKER/QTL. The first tool, MAPMAKER/EXP, helps you generate primary linkage groups. It can analyze data to find out if markers are dominant, co-dominant, or recessive. On the other hand, MAPMAKER/QTL lets you map genes using those linkage maps you created before.

How Does MAPMAKER/EXP Work?

MAPMAKER/EXP works with simple ASCII text files that have data from different types of crosses like backcrosses or intercrosses. However, MAPMAKER/QTL only works with F2 intercross and backcross data.

Getting Started with Your Data Set

You’ll kick things off by preparing your data set for analysis and loading it into MAPMAKER/EXP. This tool has tons of commands to help you list, edit, name, or erase genetic sequences. Plus, it lets you insert markers right where you need them!

Diving into Analysis

You can perform pairwise analysis on marker pairs and even conduct multi-point analysis! It’s pretty neat because it assigns markers to chromosomes and shows the mapping status for some loci.

Error Detection Features

The program also has genotyping error detection features. You can join haplotypes into one dataset too! Don’t worry about losing your progress; it saves everything to a database and keeps your mapping results safe on your computer.

A Closer Look at MAPMAKER/QTL

If you’re into gene mapping specifically, then MAPMAKER/QTL is what you need! It features various commands for traits and allows you to save your findings in PostScript format. Plus, you can compare QTL maps too!

If you're ready to give it a try yourself, check out this link for more info on how to download MapMaker.