Gene-environment interplay explaining individual variation in BMI outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies using polygenic indices
Authors' conclusion
This meta-analysis highlights the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in explaining variation in BMI. Most studies did not account for gene-environment correlation confounding and focused primarily on European ancestry populations. Future research should prioritize methodologies that address bias and focus on underrepresented ancestry groups to improve inclusivity.
Study context
- Population
- Peer-reviewed studies examining environmental exposures and using polygenic indices for BMI; 6 databases searched through April 202588 studies · 1161 estimates
- Outcome
- Environmental exposures and BMI, controlling for genetic risk
Methodological detailsstudies using polygenic indices for BMI, Risk of bias assessed with a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and quality criteria for G × E studies
- Studies using polygenic indices for BMI
- Risk of bias assessed with a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and quality criteria for G × E studies
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
Overall association between environmental exposures and BMI, controlling for genetic risk (European and combined ancestry groups)
r = 0.12
p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.16
Overall G × E effects, depending on ancestry group and inclusion of imputed effect sizes
r = 0.06 to 0.12
all p < 0.001
Further pooled results
Effect sizes by type of environmental exposure
- Overall associations largely comparable in magnitude; no significant differences in effect sizes across exposure categories
Original publication
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