Final answer:
An individual at the center of a genetic study for pedigree construction is known as a propositus, which is essential for tracking inherited traits or genetic disorders through generations.
Step-by-step explanation:
An individual who is the focus of a genetic study leading to the construction of a pedigree tracking the inheritance of a genetically determined trait of interest, and formerly known as propositus, is crucial in understanding how certain traits or genetic disorders are passed through generations. A pedigree is a diagram that illustrates the occurrence and appearance or phenotypes of a particular gene or organism and its ancestors from one generation to the next, more specifically to analyze patterns of inheritance and prevalence of genetic diseases within a family. It's essential because it aids in predicting the likelihood of an offspring inheriting a pathogenic gene and the subsequent risk of developing or transmitting a genetic disorder, especially those disorders following Mendel's Theory of Inheritance, where patterns of inheritance can be clearly determined and involve a single gene.