Factorial Mendelian randomization: using genetic variants to assess interactions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Factorial Mendelian randomization is the use of genetic variants to answer questions about interactions. Although the approach has been used in applied investigations, little methodological advice is available on how to design or perform a factorial Mendelian randomization analysis. Previous analyses have employed a 2 × 2 approach, using dichotomized genetic scores to divide the population into four subgroups as in a factorial randomized trial.

Methods

We describe two distinct contexts for factorial Mendelian randomization: investigating interactions between risk factors, and investigating interactions between pharmacological interventions on risk factors. We propose two-stage least squares methods using all available genetic variants and their interactions as ins

SUBMITTER: Rees JMB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7750987 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature