Cell-type-specific eQTLs underlie the genetic architecture of complex traits

TL;DR - A Nature study uses single-cell RNA sequencing to show that cell-type-specific expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) account for much of the genetic architecture of complex traits. The findings help connect trait-associated genetic variants to the particular cellular contexts in which they regulate genes.

• Maps genetic effects on gene expression at cell-type resolution using single-cell RNA sequencing.
• Finds that cell-type-specific eQTLs drive a substantial share of complex-trait heritability.
• Highlights cell-specific gene regulation as a key mechanism linking genetic variation to traits.
• Supports more precise interpretation of trait-associated variants by identifying their relevant cell types.