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Selection bias in epigenome-wide association studies

Safe People

Organisation name

University of Bristol

Organisation sector

Academic Institute

Applicant name(s)

Matthew Suderman

Safe Projects

Project ID

B3774

Lay summary

Selection bias is pervasive in human studies and even more so for epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) due to the relatively high costs of measuring DNA methylation. Although this bias is often acknowledged, its impact on findings has not been evaluated. We aim to perform such an evaluation for EWAS performed in ALSPAC. We will characterise selection by comparing the characteristics of ALSPAC participants measured at baseline with and without DNA methylation profiles and then estimate the resulting bias using simulations informed by the data.

Public benefit statement

A better understanding of the effects of selection bias in epigenome-wide association studies as well as advice for identifying and mitigating these effects in future studies.

Latest approval date

13/05/2021