Genetics and anthropology in studies on aging and Chagas disease

Complex traits are difficult to disentangle, as the phenotypes result from the interaction of different basic components where genetics interacts with environment, epigenetics and stochasticity (Cevenini et al., 2008). Studies in humans represent a particular challenge, owing to the pervasive and profound influence of cultural habits and specific evolutionary history on the different human populations. We will discuss the importance of adopting an integrated and multidisciplinary approach in genetic studies on two complex traits, such as aging and Chagas disease, as the most appropriate and correct methodology of data collection and analysis.