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Using Mendelian randomization as the cornerstone for causal inference in epidemiology.
Jianguo Xu1,2, Muyang Li3, Ya Gao1,2
1Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
Environmental Science and Pollution Research International
|August 25, 2021
Summary
Mendelian randomization (MR) research has rapidly expanded since 2003, with the UK leading publications. Future trends focus on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and lifestyle factors.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Mendelian randomization (MR) is a rapidly growing research field.
- Critical attention is increasingly focused on MR methodologies and applications.
- Understanding the publication landscape provides insights into research trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the publication output of Mendelian randomization (MR) research.
- To identify key institutions, countries, and journals in the MR field.
- To prospect future research frontiers and trends in MR.
Main Methods:
- Bibliometric analysis of MR-related publications.
- Data sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection (2003-2020).
- Analysis using Excel 2019, VOSviewer 1.6.9, and CiteSpace 5.7.R3.
Main Results:
- 1783 MR papers published from 2003 to 2020.
- UK leads with 852 articles; University of Bristol is the most productive institution.
- International Journal of Epidemiology is the most prolific and highly cited journal.
Conclusions:
- MR research has shown significant growth.
- Key areas for future MR research include coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, psychiatric disorders, BMI, and lifestyle factors.
- The identified exposures and outcomes represent future research hotspots.
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