Combining Human Genetics and Causal Inference to Understand Human Disease and Development

Mendelian randomization and related techniques allow researchers to use knowledge about genetic factors that contribute to a disease to predict whether other risk factors, such as environmental exposure, play a part. This volume examines how these approaches allow researchers to make causal inferences about modifiable exposures and how this can benefit public health. Topics covered in this essential volume include:

- The Meaning of Cause in Genetics

- Twins and Causal Inference: Leveraging Nature's Experiment

- Mendelian Randomization: Concepts and Scope

- Integrating Family-Based and Mendelian Randomization Designs

- Computational Tools for Causal Inference in Genetics

- Using Mendelian Randomization to Improve the Design of Randomized Trials