# Review of Mendelian randomization studies on common male-specific diseases

## TL;DR

This review summarizes Mendelian randomization studies on male-specific diseases to better understand their causes and risk factors.

## Contribution

The paper provides a systematic synthesis of Mendelian randomization studies in male-specific diseases for the first time.

## Key findings

- Mendelian randomization has been applied to male infertility, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, and prostatitis.
- Risk factors like gut microbiota and modifiable behaviors were identified as influencing men's health.
- The review highlights current challenges and potential solutions in these studies.

## Abstract

Although numerous Mendelian randomization studies on risk factors have been conducted in male medicine, a systematic synthesis of these findings is still lacking. This review searched relevant literature in PubMed and the Web of Science published before May 2024; systematically summarized the progress in the application of Mendelian randomization in male infertility, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, and prostatitis; summarized and classified the risk factors affecting men’s health, such as the gut microbiota, modifiable risk factors and related diseases; and presented some problems and solutions that were presented in these studies. This information offers valuable insights into the etiology and pathogenesis of male-specific diseases.