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