Endometriosis and anthropometric and menstrual traits: searching for common genetic roots

Abstract

Endometriosis, of unknown cause, is one of the most prevalent gynecological diseases, characterized by the presence of functionally active endometrial tissue outside the womb. It has been associated with many phenotypes, such as anthropometric and menstrual traits. However, whether these traits and endometriosis share common genetic roots is still undetermined. To investigate this, we performed a two-sample mendelian randomization (2SMR) analysis, using public data from GWAS studies. Our results showed a genetic link between low weight and shorts menstrual cycles and endometriosis. Furthermore, it seems that this relationship could be causal.