Mendelian Randomization, 2nd Edition

2

What is Mendelian randomization?

In this chapter, we illustrate in more depth the conceptual framework and motivation for Mendelian randomization, explaining how Mendelian randomization offers opportunities to address some of the problems of conventional epidemiology. We describe the specific characteristics of genetic data which give rise to the Mendelian randomization approach, and provide a classification of Mendelian randomization investigations.

2.1 What is Mendelian randomization?

Mendelian randomization is the use of genetic variants in non-experimental data to make inferences about the causal effect of an exposure on an outcome. We use the word ‘exposure’ throughout this book to refer to the putative causal risk factor. It ...