The mixed model includes both a single locus and a multi-locus component and is designed to distinguish between the two. The model assumes that all transmission from one generation to the next that cannot be accounted for by classical polygenic inheritance is due to segregation of alleles at a single locus. It is ideal for detecting a major gene in the presence of polygenic inheritance provided that no other type of transmission is occurring. This model has been extended to include an environmental correlation among sibs. Major loci identified with this model include PTC, IgE and congenital glaucoma. The unified model is a mixed model with the single locus component parameterized in terms of transmission probabilities, and is a combination of the two previous models. Several research groups have developed methodologies to overcome the computational difficulties presented by this combined model.