The final selection of the top variants were conducted according to stringent criteria, including:

1. Main effect of p<0.05 in a study with sample size over 500, and replicated in at least 2 studies, or a main effect of p<0.001 from one study AND


2. No previous pooled analysis or meta-analysis conducted

Genotyping Methods:

Probes and primers were provided by IARC.
Samples are being genotyped at the participating centers.
The genotyping protocol can be downloaded here (requires an Member login):Protocol for coordinated genotyping

Quality control procedures:

1. Validity

The probes will be tested at IARC with HapMap samples to ensure its validity. The optimized protocols will be distributed to all centers.


2. Reliability

Participating centers are encouraged to genotype 5-10% of duplicate samples


3. Inter-Laboratory QC

Participating centers that have HapMap samples or SNP500 samples are required to genotype these samples in their centers as part of the quality control procedures. The genotypes will then be compared across studies for inter-laboratory quality controls. For participating centers that do not have HapMap samples or SNP500 samples, IARC will send one 96-well plate per probe to be genotyped at your genotyping facility as part of the quality control procedures.