Recent Developments in Mendelian Randomization Studies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Mendelian randomization (MR) is a strategy for evaluating causality in observational epidemiological studies. MR exploits the fact that genotypes are not generally susceptible to reverse causation and confounding, due to their fixed nature and Mendel's First and Second Laws of Inheritance. MR has the potential to provide information on causality in many situations where randomized controlled trials are not possible, but the results of MR studies must be interpreted carefully to avoid drawing erroneous conclusions. RECENT FINDINGS: In this review, we outline the principles behind MR, as well as assumptions and limitations of the method. Extensions to the basic approach are discussed,…

• UO
  University of Bristol
• MR
  Medical Research Council

  Awards: MR/N501906/1, MR/P014054/1