Inferring causal direction between two traits in the presence of horizontal pleiotropy with GWAS summary data.

ABSTRACT: Orienting the causal relationship between pairs of traits is a fundamental task in scientific research with significant implications in practice, such as in prioritizing molecular targets and modifiable risk factors for developing therapeutic and interventional strategies for complex diseases. A recent method, called Steiger's method, using a single SNP as an instrument variable (IV) in the framework of Mendelian randomization (MR), has since been widely applied. We report the following new contributions. First, we propose a single SNP-based alternative, overcoming a severe limitation of Steiger's method in simply assuming, instead of inferring, the existence of a causal relationship. We also clarify a condition necessary for the validity of the methods in the presence of hidden confoundin

SUBMITTER: Xue H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7660933 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature