Final answer:
Haplotypes can be broken down to reveal causal variants through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) that analyzes differences in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between individuals with and without a disease. The genetic differences identified can be used as markers for susceptibility to the disease and targets for further research.
Step-by-step explanation:
Haplotypes can be broken down to reveal the causal variants through a method called genome-wide association study (GWAS). In a GWAS, two groups of individuals are chosen, one with the disease and one without. Their DNA is analyzed using automated systems to identify differences in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between the two groups. The genetic differences identified in the GWAS can be used to identify markers for susceptibility to the disease and as targets for further research into the molecular pathway of the disease.