Composite trait Mendelian randomization reveals distinct metabolic and lifestyle consequences of differences in body shape

Jonathan Sulc et al. use principal component analysis and Mendelian randomization to conduct a comprehensive analysis of 14 body morphology metrics using data from the UK Biobank. Their results suggest that body size and adiposity have distinct impacts on obesity-related outcomes and highlight a BMI-neutral component affecting body fat distribution, providing further insight into the genetic basis of body shape and its consequences on human health and lifestyle.