Machine Learning-Assisted eQTL Analysis — ML-Based Expression Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping

Machine learning-assisted eQTL analysis integrates supervised learning models — ranging from elastic-net regression to deep neural networks — into the classical eQTL framework to predict and map genetic variants that regulate gene expression. By training predictive models on reference panels (e.g., GTEx), the approach enables imputation of gene expression in cohorts lacking RNA data, substantially increasing statistical power and enabling trans-tissue generalisation.