Inheritance of Craniofacial Indices: A Study on Bengalee Hindu Population of West Bengal, India

Bone morphology and facial features are multi factorial i.e. combination of gene and environment with a complex inheritance pattern. Previous studies mostly from abroad participants suggested significant genetic contribution in linear and proportional measures on the basis of twin and family studies. In this background, the present study is the maiden attempt to understand the familial correlation and heritability pattern of different craniofacial indices from Indian context. To achieve the purpose, cross-sectional study was undertaken on Bengalee Hindu caste among 100 families. Ten (10) craniofacial measurements and six (6) indices were derived using standard techniques and formulae respectively. Significant (p<0.05) sexual dimorphisms were found in majority of the indices. Father-child combination demonstrated significant (p<0.05) positive correlation compared to those of their mother-child counterparts. In addition to that, coefficient of determination (R2) and heritability (h2) estimation indicated a strong trend of unilateral patterns of inheritance in Bengalee Hindu Caste population.