The Carter Effect: Unraveling the Mystery of Multifactorial Inheritance

Multifactorial Threshold

The Carter effect refers to the increased frequency of multifactorially inherited traits in subsequent generations. This phenomenon suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of these traits.

Evidence of Multifactorial Inheritance

The Carter effect provides evidence for the multifactorial inheritance of certain traits. By observing the increased prevalence of these traits in families with multiple affected individuals, researchers have concluded that multiple genetic and environmental factors interact to determine their expression.

Implications for Understanding Complex Traits

Understanding the Carter effect is crucial for unraveling the complexity of human traits. It challenges the simplistic notion that single genes solely determine our characteristics and highlights the intricate interplay between genetics and environment.