[Objectives]To investigate the potential causal relationship between psoriasis and common mental disorders,and to provide genetic epidemiological evidence for the early intervention of mental comorbidities.[Methods]Ba...[Objectives]To investigate the potential causal relationship between psoriasis and common mental disorders,and to provide genetic epidemiological evidence for the early intervention of mental comorbidities.[Methods]Based on publicly available large-scale GWAS data,a bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)approach was employed to assess the causal associations between psoriasis and major depressive disorder(MDD),bipolar disorder,schizophrenia,and anxiety disorders.The inverse variance weighted(IVW)method served as the primary analytical tool,supplemented by sensitivity analyses using MR-Egger and weighted median methods.Additionally,a subgroup analysis was conducted for psoriatic arthritis(PsA).[Results]Forward MR analysis revealed a significant positive causal association between the genetic predisposition to psoriasis and bipolar disorder as well as MDD,whereas no significant causal relationship was observed with schizophrenia or anxiety disorders.The reverse MR analysis found no causal effect of mental disorders on psoriasis.Subgroup analysis of PsA indicated that its genetic predisposition was significantly associated with the risk of bipolar disorder.The results of various sensitivity analyses and pleiotropy tests supported the robustness of the conclusions.[Conclusions]This study provides genetic evidence supporting a causal link between psoriasis and both MDD and bipolar disorder.In particular,patients with PsA are at a higher risk of developing bipolar disorder,highlighting the need to strengthen early screening and intervention for mental health in clinical management.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the causal effect of obesity on cataract risk and explores the potential mediating roles of metabolites using Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Summary-level data from large-scale genome-wide asso...AIM:To investigate the causal effect of obesity on cataract risk and explores the potential mediating roles of metabolites using Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Summary-level data from large-scale genome-wide association studies to examine the relationship between obesity and cataract were utilized.Obesity-related traits,including body mass index(BMI),waist-to-hip ratio(WHR),and waist circumference(WC).A two-sample MR approach was employed to assess the causal effect of obesity on cataract risk,while potential mediators were identified from suitable genome-wide association studies(GWAS)datasets.Additionally,a metabolic pathway analysis was conducted.RESULTS:An increase of 1 standard deviation(SD)in BMI,WHR,and WC was associated with a significantly higher risk of cataract(BMI:odds ratio(OR)1.0017,95%confidence interval(CI):1.0001-1.0032,P=0.0320;WHR:OR 1.0029,95%CI:1.0006-1.0051,P=0.0129;WC:OR 1.0020,95%CI:1.0001-1.0038,P=0.0390].These associations remained robust after adjusting for confounding factors in multivariable MR analysis.Furthermore,a two-step MR analysis identified eight potential metabolic mediators,with one mediator showing a significant causal role in the relationship between obesity and cataract.CONCLUSION:This work highlights the importance of addressing obesity as a modifiable risk factor for cataracts,particularly through metabolic pathways.展开更多
Objective Previous studies link lower body mass index(BMI)with increased obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD)risk,yet other body mass indicators may be more etioloically relevant.We dissected the causal association betw...Objective Previous studies link lower body mass index(BMI)with increased obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD)risk,yet other body mass indicators may be more etioloically relevant.We dissected the causal association between body fat mass(FM)and OCD.Methods Summary statistics from genome-wide association studies of European ancestry were utilized to conduct two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.Heterogeneity,horizontal pleiotropy,and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness.Results The inverse variance weighting method demonstrated that a genetically predicted decrease in FM was causally associated with an increased OCD risk[odds ratio(OR)=0.680,95%confidence interval(CI):0.528–0.875,P=0.003].Similar estimates were obtained using the weighted median approach(OR=0.633,95%CI:0.438–0.915,P=0.015).Each standard deviation increases in genetically predicted body fat percentage corresponded to a reduced OCD risk(OR=0.638,95%CI:0.455–0.896,P=0.009).The sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings with no outlier instrument variables identified.Conclusion The negative causal association between FM and the risk of OCD suggests that the prevention or treatment of mental disorders should include not only the control of BMI but also fat distribution and body composition.展开更多
AIM:To explore the causal relationship between several possible behavioral factors and high myopia(HM)using multivariable Mendelian randomization(MVMR)approach and to find the mediators among them with mediation analy...AIM:To explore the causal relationship between several possible behavioral factors and high myopia(HM)using multivariable Mendelian randomization(MVMR)approach and to find the mediators among them with mediation analysis.METHODS:The causal effects of several behavioral factors,including screen time,education time,time spent outdoors,and physical activity,on the risk of HM using univariable Mendelian randomization(MR)and MVMR analyses were first assessed.Genome-wide association study summary statistics of serum metabolites were also used in mediation analysis to determine the extent to which serum metabolites mediate the effects of behavioral factors on HM.RESULTS:MR analyses indicated that both increased time spent outdoors and a higher frequency of moderate physical activity significantly reduced the risk of HM.Further MVMR analysis confirmed that moderate physical activity independently contributed to a lower risk of HM.Additionally,MR analyses identified 13 serum metabolites significantly associated with HM,of which 12 were lipids and one was an amino acid derivative.Mediation analysis revealed that six lipid metabolites mediated the protective effects of moderate physical activity on HM,with the highest mediation proportion observed for 1-(1-enyl-palmitoyl)-GPC(p-16:0;30.83%).CONCLUSION:This study suggests that in addition to outdoor time,moderate physical activity habits may have an independent protective effect against HM and pointed to lipid metabolites as priority targets for the prevention due to low physical activity.These results emphasize the importance of physical activity and metabolic health in HM and underscore the need for further study of these complex associations.展开更多
AIM:To comprehensively assess the relationship between asthma and myopia based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey(NHANES)database combined with Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Initially,20497 ...AIM:To comprehensively assess the relationship between asthma and myopia based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey(NHANES)database combined with Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Initially,20497 subjects from the complete questionnaire cycle in the NHANES database from 2005 to 2008 were included.By exclusion criteria,8460 subjects were screened with 1676 myopia samples and 6784 control samples.Subsequently,baseline characteristics,association analyses,risk stratification analyses,and receive operating characteristic curve(ROC)were used to investigate the associations between covariates and myopia.Then,the causal relationship was explored in depth by MR analysis,and was estimated the reliability by sensitivity analyses and directionality tests.RESULTS:Baseline characteristics illustrated a significant difference between myopia and controls for both asthma and covariates(excluding gender;P<0.05).The results in all three models indicated that asthma was strongly associated with myopia and the effect on myopia was not significantly confounded by other covariates[model 3:odd ratio(OR)=1.31;95%CI=1.07-1.62;P=0.0133].The risk stratification analysis again verified that asthma remained strongly associated with myopia and was a risk factor for myopia(P<0.05,OR>1).ROC proved that the model was accurate in its prediction[area under curve(AUC)=0.7].Subsequently,the causal relationship between them was statistically significant(P<0.05)according to the inverse variance weighted(IVW)method in MR.Scatterplot showed that asthma and myopia had significant positive causality and were not affected by confounders.Forest plot displayed an increasing risk of myopia on asthma(OR>1).The funnel plot demonstrated compliance with Mendel’s second law.Sensitivity analysis and directional analysis further confirmed the confidence of the MR analysis results and a unidirectional causal relationship between them.CONCLUSION:A significant association and causality between asthma and myopia is found through the NHANES database and MR analysis,which is important implications for public health policy development and clinical practice.展开更多
Background Recent studies have suggested a potential role of the oral microbiome in the development of cardiovascular diseases.This study aims to investigate the association between oral microbiota and cardiovascular ...Background Recent studies have suggested a potential role of the oral microbiome in the development of cardiovascular diseases.This study aims to investigate the association between oral microbiota and cardiovascular disease risk,including atrial fibrillation,myocardial infarction,chronic heart failure,and hypertension.Methods We analyzed GWAS data from East Asian populations'oral microbiome,involving 2,017 tongue and 1,915 saliva samples from 2,984 individuals with whole-genome sequencing.Additionally,we sourced cardiovascular disease GWAS data from NBDC,including atrial fibrillation(8,180 cases,28,621 controls),myocardial infarction(14,992 cases,146,214 controls),chronic heart failure(10,540 cases,168,186 controls),and systolic blood pressure(145,505 individuals).Results Several oral microbiota taxa were found to be significantly associated with cardiovascular disease outcomes.Specific microbiota,such as Centipeda,Corynebacterium,and Pseudomonas E,were negatively correlated with heart failure.In contrast,taxa like Neisseria D and Actinomyces were associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and myocardial infarction.Additionally,certain oral microbiota showed correlations with changes in blood pressure,highlighting their potential role in hypertension.Conclusion Our findings suggest that the oral microbiota may influence the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases,providing new insights into the potential impact of oral health on cardiovascular risk.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the potential causal associations between 41 inflammatory cytokines and myopia using a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)approach.METHODS:Publicly available genome-wide association study(GWAS)da...AIM:To investigate the potential causal associations between 41 inflammatory cytokines and myopia using a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)approach.METHODS:Publicly available genome-wide association study(GWAS)datasets were utilized for this two-sample MR analysis.Inflammatory cytokine-related GWAS data were extracted from The University of Bristol’s Research Data Repository,and myopia-related GWAS data were obtained from the FinnGen project.Single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)associated with inflammatory cytokines were systematically selected as instrumental variables(IVs)based on three rigorous criteria:relevance,independence,and exclusion of pleiotropy.Five MR methods were employed for causal inference:the inverse-variance weighted(IVW)method as the primary analysis,supplemented by MREgger regression,weighted median estimator,simple mode,and weighted mode approaches.Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness of the causal estimates.RESULTS:A total of 773 myopia-associated SNPs were identified.MR analysis revealed that higher levels of macrophage inflammatory protein 1-α(MIP-1α)were associated with a 17%reduced risk of myopia[odds ratio(OR)=0.83;95%confidence interval(CI):0.69-0.99;P<0.05].In contrast,elevated levels of eotaxin(OR=1.26;95%CI:1.07-1.47;P<0.01),stromal cell-derived factor-1α(SDF-1α;OR=1.68;95%CI:1.08-2.62;P<0.05),and interleukin-2 receptor subunit alpha(IL-2Rα;OR=1.25;95%CI:1.01-1.53;P<0.05)were significantly associated with an increased risk of myopia.Sensitivity analyses confirmed the reliability of these results.CONCLUSION:This study provides evidence supporting a causal relationship between specific inflammatory cytokines and myopia.MIP-1αmay act as a protective factor against myopia,while eotaxin,SDF-1α,and IL-2Rαare potential risk factors for myopia.These findings emphasize the critical role of inflammatory pathways in the pathogenesis of myopia,offering novel insights for the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for myopia.展开更多
Objective Observational studies have shown inconsistent associations of loneliness or social isolation(SI)with ischemic heart disease(IHD),with unknown mediators.Methods Using data from genome-wide association studies...Objective Observational studies have shown inconsistent associations of loneliness or social isolation(SI)with ischemic heart disease(IHD),with unknown mediators.Methods Using data from genome-wide association studies of predominantly European ancestry,we performed a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization(MR)study to estimate causal effects of loneliness(N=487,647)and SI traits on IHD(N=184,305).SI traits included whether individuals lived alone,participated in various types of social activities,and how often they had contact with friends or family(N=459,830 to 461,369).A network MR study was conducted to evaluate the mediating roles of 20 candidate mediators,including metabolic,behavioral and psychological factors.Results Loneliness increased IHD risk(OR=2.129;95%confidence interval[CI]:1.380 to 3.285),mediated by body fat percentage,waist-hip ratio,total cholesterol,and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.For SI traits,only fewer social activities increased IHD risk(OR=1.815;95%CI:1.189 to 2.772),mediated by hypertension,high-density lipoprotein cholesterol,triglycerides,fasting insulin,and smoking cessation.No reverse causality of IHD with loneliness and SI was found.Conclusion These findings suggested more attention should be paid to individuals who feel lonely and have fewer social activities to prevent IHD,with several mediators as prioritized targets for intervention.展开更多
Objective:Based on multistage metabolomic profiling and Mendelian randomization analyses,the current study identified plasma metabolites that predicted the risk of developing gastric cancer(GC)and determined whether k...Objective:Based on multistage metabolomic profiling and Mendelian randomization analyses,the current study identified plasma metabolites that predicted the risk of developing gastric cancer(GC)and determined whether key metabolite levels modified the GC primary prevention effects.Methods:Plasma metabolites associated with GC risk were identified through a case-control study.Bi-directional two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses were performed to determine potential causal relationships utilizing the Shandong Intervention Trial(SIT),a nested case-control study of the Mass Intervention Trial in Linqu,Shandong province(MITS),China,the UK Biobank,and the Finn Gen project.Results:A higher genetic risk score for plasma L-aspartic acid was significantly associated with an increased GC risk in the northern Chinese population(SIT:HR=1.26 per 1 SD change,95%CI:1.07±1.49;MITS:HR=1.07,95%CI:1.00±1.14)and an increased gastric adenocarcinoma risk in Finn Gen(OR=1.68,95%CI:1.16±2.45).Genetically predicted plasma L-aspartic acid levels also modified the GC primary prevention effects with the beneficial effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication notably observed among individuals within the top quartile of L-aspartic acid level(P-interaction=0.098)and the beneficial effect of garlic supplementation only for those within the lowest quartile of L-aspartic acid level(P-interaction=0.02).Conclusions:Elevated plasma L-aspartic acid levels significantly increased the risk of developing GC and modified the effects of GC primary prevention.Further studies from other populations are warranted to validate the modification effect of plasma L-aspartic acid levels on GC prevention and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.展开更多
Objective Vitamin deficiencies,particularly in vitamins A,B12,and D,are prevalent across populations and contribute significantly to a range of health issues.While these deficiencies are well documented,the underlying...Objective Vitamin deficiencies,particularly in vitamins A,B12,and D,are prevalent across populations and contribute significantly to a range of health issues.While these deficiencies are well documented,the underlying etiology remains complex.Recent studies suggest a close link between the gut microbiota and the synthesis,absorption,and metabolism of these vitamins.However,the specific causal relationships between the gut microbiota composition and vitamin deficiencies remain poorly understood.Identifying key bacterial species and understanding their role in vitamin metabolism could provide critical insights for targeted interventions.Methods We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)study to assess the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and vitamin deficiencies(A,B12,D).The genome-wide association study data for vitamin deficiencies were sourced from the FinnGen biobank,and the gut microbiota data were from the MiBioGen consortium.MR analyses included inverse variance-weighted(IVW),MR‒Egger,weighted median,and weighted mode approaches.Sensitivity analyses and reverse causality assessments were performed to ensure robustness and validate the findings.Results After FDR adjustment,vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with the class Verrucomicrobiae,order Verrucomicrobiales,family Verrucomicrobiaceae,and genus Akkermansia.Vitamin A deficiency was associated with the phylum Firmicutes and the genera Fusicatenibacter and Ruminiclostridium 6.Additional associations for vitamin B12 deficiency included the Enterobacteriaceae and Rhodospirillaceae and the genera Coprococcus 2,Lactococcus,and Ruminococcaceae UCG002.Vitamin D deficiency was associated with the genera Allisonella,Eubacterium,and Tyzzerella 3.Lachnospiraceae and Lactococcus were common risk factors for both B12 and D deficiency.Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings against heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy,and reverse MR tests indicated no evidence of reverse causality.Conclusions Our findings reveal a possible causal relationship between specific gut microbiota characteristics and vitamin A,B12 and D deficiencies,providing a theoretical basis for addressing these nutritional deficiencies through the modulation of the gut microbiota in the future and laying the groundwork for related interventions.展开更多
Objective:Gut microbiota(GM)and blood metabolites are associated with the development of urticaria,yet their specific causal relationships in East Asian populations remain unclear.This study aims to elucidate the caus...Objective:Gut microbiota(GM)and blood metabolites are associated with the development of urticaria,yet their specific causal relationships in East Asian populations remain unclear.This study aims to elucidate the causal and mediating relationships among GM,blood metabolites,and urticaria in East Asians using Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.Methods:Summary-level statistics for 500 GM taxa,112 blood metabolites,and urticaria were obtained from publicly available Genome-Wide Association Studies(GWAS)datasets.Bidirectional MR analyses were performed to examine causal associations among the GM,blood metabolites,and urticaria.The inverse variance weighted(IVW)method served as the primary analytical approach,supplemented by MR-Egger,weighted median,simple mode,and weighted mode methods.Sensitivity analyses included heterogeneity tests,horizontal pleiotropy assessments,and leave-one-out analyses.Mediation analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential mediating effects of blood metabolites on the causal pathways between GM and urticaria.Results:MR analyses identified 12 GM taxa exhibiting significant causal effects on urticaria susceptibility.Nine taxa,such as MF0017_galactose_degradation(OR=1.461,95%CI 1.098 to 1.944,P=0.009),were associated with increased urticaria risk.Three taxa,such as MF0001_arabinoxylan_degradation(OR=0.846,95%CI 0.737 to 0.973,P=0.019),showed protective effects with increased abundance.Additionally,6 blood metabolites demonstrated causal associations with urticaria.Notably,the risk of developing urticaria increases with rising fasting plasma glucose(FPG)levels(OR=1.971,95%CI 1.089 to 3.567,P=0.025).Mediation analysis further demonstrated that FPG partially mediated the protective effect of MF0001_arabinoxylan_degradation on urticaria,accounting for 11.30%of the total effect.Conclusion:This study has delineated specific GM taxa and blood metabolites that hold causal relevance to urticaria in East Asian populations.Notably,arabinogalactan degradation potentially mitigates urticaria risk via reducing FPG concentrations,offering genetic evidence to support therapeutic strategies targeting GM modulation and glucose regulation.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the causal relationship between dietary intake and myopia using Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.METHODS:Genome-wide association study(GWAS)data from the IEU Open GWAS database were utilized to e...AIM:To investigate the causal relationship between dietary intake and myopia using Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.METHODS:Genome-wide association study(GWAS)data from the IEU Open GWAS database were utilized to examine associations between myopia and various dietary factors.MR analysis,incorporating both univariable and multivariable approaches,assessed the impact of food intake on myopia risk through five analytical methods,with inverse variance weighted(IVW)serving as the primary reference.Sensitivity analyses,including heterogeneity assessment,horizontal pleiotropy evaluation,and leave-oneout analysis,were conducted to validate the MR findings.RESULTS:Univariable MR analysis identified a causal link between food intake and myopia.Consumption of breaded fish,canned soup,sweet biscuits,and certain fruits correlated with a lower risk of myopia,whereas intake of low-calorie hot chocolate and cereal was associated with an increased risk.Multivariable MR analysis further confirmed that breaded fish consumption exerted a direct protective effect against myopia,particularly when consumed alongside other dietary components.These findings highlight the intricate interplay between specific dietary factors and myopia development,offering valuable insights for further research.CONCLUSION:MR analysis provides evidence supporting a potential causal relationship between breaded fish intake and myopia,underscoring its relevance in targeted myopia prevention strategies.展开更多
Background:Obesity is recognized as a prominent contributing factor for pancreatic diseases;however,the mechanisms remain elusive.We aimed to identify the mediating role of circulating proteins in these associations.M...Background:Obesity is recognized as a prominent contributing factor for pancreatic diseases;however,the mechanisms remain elusive.We aimed to identify the mediating role of circulating proteins in these associations.Methods:A two-step Mendelian randomization(MR)was conducted to investigate associations between nine obesity indicators,thousands of circulating proteins,with three pancreatic diseases(acute pancreatitis,chronic pancreatitis,and pancreatic carcinoma).Colocalization analyses were performed to validate these associations.Protein mediating networks among obesity indicators and pancreatic diseases were investigated by mediation analysis.Results:Genetically predicted circulating levels of 4,2,and 2 proteins were associated with acute pancreatitis,chronic pancreatitis,and pancreatic carcinoma,respectively.In mediation analysis,decreased chymotrypsin B2(CTRB2)levels mediated 1.03%(95%CI[confidence interval]0.02%-2.03%)of the effects of body mass index on acute pancreatitis.Increased R-spondin 3(RSPO3)levels mediated the effects of body mass index(2.95%,95%CI 0.18%-5.73%),body fat percentage(4.53%,95%CI 1.11%-7.96%),waist-hip ratio(8.48%,95%CI 3.11%-13.86%),and visceral adipose tissue(3.93%,95%CI 0.64%-7.22%)on acute pancreatitis.We also found increased klotho beta(KLOTB)levels mediated the effects of waist-hip ratio(7.01%,95%CI 3.30%-10.71%)and visceral adipose tissue(8.98%,95%CI 4.55%-13.41%)on chronic pancreatitis,and decreased receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1(ROR1)levels mediated the effects of body mass index(10.39%,95%CI 3.36%-17.42%)and visceral adipose tissue(6.29%,95%CI 1.00%-11.58%)on pancreatic carcinoma.Conclusions:The MR suggests that circulating CTRB2,RSPO3,KLOTB,and ROR1 proteins may mediate associations between obesity and pancreatic diseases.展开更多
In recent years,Mendelian randomization(MR)has been increasingly utilized,leveraging genetic variants as instrumental variables.This approach significantly mitigates confounder effects and reverse causation,precisely ...In recent years,Mendelian randomization(MR)has been increasingly utilized,leveraging genetic variants as instrumental variables.This approach significantly mitigates confounder effects and reverse causation,precisely clarifying the causal links between exposures and outcomes.MR’s unique advantages have made it instrumental in medicine,especially in elucidating glaucoma’s etiology.It facilitates the identification of potential risk factors,laying the groundwork for developing preventative and therapeutic strategies against glaucoma.Recent MR research has delved into diverse potential glaucoma risk factors,including behavioral habits,metabolic profiles,and their causative linkage to the disease.This review encapsulates MR’s analysis in glaucoma etiology,heralding new avenues for understanding underlying mechanisms and establishing causality.展开更多
Dear Editor,Observational studies in epidemiology have identified a correlation between hypothyroidism and cholelithiasis[1–2].However,the causal relationship between the two diseases remains unclear.To investigate t...Dear Editor,Observational studies in epidemiology have identified a correlation between hypothyroidism and cholelithiasis[1–2].However,the causal relationship between the two diseases remains unclear.To investigate the potential causal relationship,we employed a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.展开更多
Background:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a prevalent respiratory ailment that has risen to become the foremost cause of mortality globally,and statins are a widely used class of lipid-modifying drugs.D...Background:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a prevalent respiratory ailment that has risen to become the foremost cause of mortality globally,and statins are a widely used class of lipid-modifying drugs.Data from some observational studies suggest an association between statins use and COPD.Objectives:The main objective of this study was to investigate whether lipids and apolipoproteins are bidirectionally causally associated with COPD at the genetic level using a Mendelian randomization(MR)design,and to determine the potential role of circulating inflammatory proteins as mediators in this association.Methods:The publicly available Genome-Wide Association Study(GWAS)database was utilised for the purposes of the analysis.The data on high-density lipoprotein(HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein(LDL-C),triglycerides(TG),apolipoprotein A-1(ApoA1),and apolipoprotein B(ApoB)were obtained from the UK BioBank,while the COPD dataset was obtained from the FinnGen BioBank R11(number of cases:21,617,number of controls:372,627).Furthermore,data were gathered on genetic variants linked to inflammatory processes,encompassing 91 circulating inflammatory proteins(n=14,823 individuals).A two-sample MR study was conducted using these data to assess the association between HDL-C,LDL-C,TG,ApoA1,and ApoB with the risk of COPD.Furthermore,in order to investigate the potential mediating influence of inflammatory factor alterations between lipids and COPD,a two-step Mendelian randomization(MR)mediation analysis was conducted.Results:The forward MR methods identified two lipids that were found to have a causal relationship with the development of COPD.An elevated level of LDL-C and ApoB was found to be associated with a diminished risk of COPD.Furthermore,the researchers identified circulating inflammatory factors that were determined to be the causal agents in the development of COPD.Mediation analysis indicated that the inflammatory protein S100-A12 may act as a mediator between the LDL-C and COPD pathways.Conclusion:The present MR study provides genetic evidence for a causal relationship between lipids and apolipoproteins and COPD,as well as identifying the inflammatory protein S100-A12 as a potential mediator of the COPD association.The findings offer valuable insights into the mechanistic studies of statins for COPD and potential targets for disease intervention and treatment.展开更多
Emerging evidence highlights the role of thyroid hormones in cancer,although findings are controversial.Research on thyroid-related traits in lung carcinogenesis is limited.Using UK Biobank data,we performed bidirecti...Emerging evidence highlights the role of thyroid hormones in cancer,although findings are controversial.Research on thyroid-related traits in lung carcinogenesis is limited.Using UK Biobank data,we performed bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)to assess causal associations between lung cancer risk and thyroid dysfunction(hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)or functional traits(free thyroxine[FT4]and normal-range thyroid-stimulating hormone[TSH]).Furthermore,in the smoking-behavior-stratified MR analysis,we evaluated the mediating effect of thyroid-related phenotypes on the association between smoking behaviors and lung cancer.We demonstrated significant associations between lung cancer risk and hypothyroidism(hazard ratio[HR]=1.14,95%confidence interval[CI]=1.03–1.26,P=0.009)and hyperthyroidism(HR=1.55,95%CI=1.29–1.87,P=1.90×10^(-6))in the UKB.Moreover,the MR analysis indicated a causal effect of thyroid dysfunction on lung cancer risk(ORinverse variance weighted[IVW]=1.09,95%CI=1.05–1.13,P=3.12×10^(-6)for hypothyroidism;ORIVW=1.08,95%CI=1.04–1.12,P=8.14×10^(-5)for hyperthyroidism).We found that FT4 levels were protective against lung cancer risk(ORIVW=0.93,95%CI=0.87–0.99,P=0.030).Additionally,the stratified MR analysis demonstrated distinct causal effects of thyroid dysfunction on lung cancer risk among smokers.Hyperthyroidism mediated the effect of smoking behaviors,especially the age of smoking initiation(17.66%mediated),on lung cancer risk.Thus,thyroid dysfunction phenotypes play causal roles in lung cancer development exclusively among smokers and act as mediators in the causal pathway from smoking to lung cancer.展开更多
Objective Pneumoconiosis,a lung disease caused by irreversible fibrosis,represents a significant public health burden.This study investigates the causal relationships between gut microbiota,gene methylation,gene expre...Objective Pneumoconiosis,a lung disease caused by irreversible fibrosis,represents a significant public health burden.This study investigates the causal relationships between gut microbiota,gene methylation,gene expression,protein levels,and pneumoconiosis using a multi-omics approach and Mendelian randomization(MR).Methods We analyzed gut microbiota data from MiBioGen and Esteban et al.to assess their potential causal effects on pneumoconiosis subtypes(asbestosis,silicosis,and inorganic pneumoconiosis)using conventional and summary-data-based MR(SMR).Gene methylation and expression data from Genotype-Tissue Expression and eQTLGen,along with protein level data from deCODE and UK Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project,were examined in relation to pneumoconiosis data from FinnGen.To validate our findings,we assessed self-measured gut flora from a pneumoconiosis cohort and performed fine mapping,drug prediction,molecular docking,and Phenome-Wide Association Studies to explore relevant phenotypes of key genes.Results Three core gut microorganisms were identified:Romboutsia(OR=0.249)as a protective factor against silicosis,Pasteurellaceae(OR=3.207)and Haemophilus parainfluenzae(OR=2.343)as risk factors for inorganic pneumoconiosis.Additionally,mapping and quantitative trait loci analyses revealed that the genes VIM,STX8,and MIF were significantly associated with pneumoconiosis risk.Conclusions This multi-omics study highlights the associations between gut microbiota and key genes(VIM,STX8,MIF)with pneumoconiosis,offering insights into potential therapeutic targets and personalized treatment strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Whether lipid-modifying drugs directly impact the outcome of sepsis remains uncertain.Therefore,systematic investigations are needed to explore the potential impact of lipid-related therapies on sepsis outc...BACKGROUND:Whether lipid-modifying drugs directly impact the outcome of sepsis remains uncertain.Therefore,systematic investigations are needed to explore the potential impact of lipid-related therapies on sepsis outcomes and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involving circulating inflammatory cytokines,which may play critical roles in the pathogenesis of sepsis.This study aimed to utilize drug-target Mendelian randomization to assess the direct causal effects of genetically proxied lipid-modifying therapies on sepsis outcomes.METHODS:First,a two-sample Mendelian randomization study was conducted to validate the causal associations among high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),and sepsis.A subsequent drug-target Mendelian randomization study assessed the direct causal effects of genetical y proxied lipid-modifying therapies on the risk of sepsis,sepsis-related critical care admission,and sepsis-related death.The identified lipid-modifying drug targets were subsequently explored for direct causal relationships with 36 circulating inflammatory cytokines.Finally,enrichment analyses of the identified cytokines were conducted to explore the potential relationships of lipid-modifying drugs with the inflammatory response.RESULTS:Genetically proxied cholesteryl ester transfer protein(CETP) inhibitors were significantly associated with sepsis-related critical care admission(OR=0.84,95% CI [0.74,0.95],P=0.008,) and sepsisrelated death(OR=0.68,95% CI [0.52,0.88],P=0.004).The genetically proxied CETP inhibitors were strongly associated with the levels of 15 circulating inflammatory cytokines.Enrichment analyses indicated that CETP inhibitors may modulate inflammatory cytokines and influence the inflammatory response pathway.CONCLUSION:This study supports a causal effect of genetically proxied CETP inhibitors in reducing the risk of sepsis-related critical care admission and death.These findings suggest that the underlying mechanism may involve the modulation of some circulating inflammatory cytokines,influencing the inflammatory response pathway.展开更多
Objective To clarify the causal relationship between the level of cytoplasmic unactivated mineralocorticoid receptor(MR)and the development of tubulointerstitial nephritis(TIN),and to evaluate the impact of MR on dysl...Objective To clarify the causal relationship between the level of cytoplasmic unactivated mineralocorticoid receptor(MR)and the development of tubulointerstitial nephritis(TIN),and to evaluate the impact of MR on dyslipidemia,particularly secondary hyperlipemia,in patients with diabetic kidney disease.Methods We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization study using genome-wide association study(GWAS)summary data.Genetic variants associated with MR levels were selected as exposures,with TIN and lipid profiles[including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),triglyceride,and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol]as outcomes.A two-step Mendelian randomization approach was used to assess TIN as a mediator,employing inverse variance weighted regression as the primary analysis,supplemented by Mendelian randomization-Egger,weighted median,and sensitivity analyses.Results Cytoplasmic unactivated MR level exhibited a significant causal association with a decreased risk of TIN(OR=0.8598,95%CI[0.7775-0.9508],P<0.001).Although no significant causal relationship was identified between MR level and secondary hyperlipemia,a potential association of cytoplasmic unactivated MR level with lower LDL-C levels was observed(OR=0.9901,95%CI[0.9821-0.9983],P=0.018).Additionally,TIN exhibited causal links with secondary hyperlipemia(OR=1.0016,95%CI[1.0002-1.0029],P=0.020)and elevated LDL-C(OR=1.0111,95%CI[1.0024-1.0199],P=0.012),particularly LDL-C in European males(OR=1.0230,95%CI[1.0103-1.0358],P<0.001).Inverse Mendelian randomization analysis revealed causal relationships between TIN and genetically predicted triglyceride(OR=0.7027,95%CI[0.6189-0.7978],P<0.001),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(OR=1.1247,95%CI[1.0019-1.2626],P=0.046),and LDL-C(OR=0.8423,95%CI[0.7220-0.9827],P=0.029).Notably,TIN mediated 16.7%of the causal association between MR and LDL-C levels.Conclusions MR plays a critical role in the development of TIN and lipid metabolism,highlighting the potential of MR-antagonists in reducing renal damage and lipid metabolism-associated complications.展开更多
文摘[Objectives]To investigate the potential causal relationship between psoriasis and common mental disorders,and to provide genetic epidemiological evidence for the early intervention of mental comorbidities.[Methods]Based on publicly available large-scale GWAS data,a bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)approach was employed to assess the causal associations between psoriasis and major depressive disorder(MDD),bipolar disorder,schizophrenia,and anxiety disorders.The inverse variance weighted(IVW)method served as the primary analytical tool,supplemented by sensitivity analyses using MR-Egger and weighted median methods.Additionally,a subgroup analysis was conducted for psoriatic arthritis(PsA).[Results]Forward MR analysis revealed a significant positive causal association between the genetic predisposition to psoriasis and bipolar disorder as well as MDD,whereas no significant causal relationship was observed with schizophrenia or anxiety disorders.The reverse MR analysis found no causal effect of mental disorders on psoriasis.Subgroup analysis of PsA indicated that its genetic predisposition was significantly associated with the risk of bipolar disorder.The results of various sensitivity analyses and pleiotropy tests supported the robustness of the conclusions.[Conclusions]This study provides genetic evidence supporting a causal link between psoriasis and both MDD and bipolar disorder.In particular,patients with PsA are at a higher risk of developing bipolar disorder,highlighting the need to strengthen early screening and intervention for mental health in clinical management.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82501261)Medical Research Projects of the Jiangsu Provincial Health Commission(No.M2024041).
文摘AIM:To investigate the causal effect of obesity on cataract risk and explores the potential mediating roles of metabolites using Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Summary-level data from large-scale genome-wide association studies to examine the relationship between obesity and cataract were utilized.Obesity-related traits,including body mass index(BMI),waist-to-hip ratio(WHR),and waist circumference(WC).A two-sample MR approach was employed to assess the causal effect of obesity on cataract risk,while potential mediators were identified from suitable genome-wide association studies(GWAS)datasets.Additionally,a metabolic pathway analysis was conducted.RESULTS:An increase of 1 standard deviation(SD)in BMI,WHR,and WC was associated with a significantly higher risk of cataract(BMI:odds ratio(OR)1.0017,95%confidence interval(CI):1.0001-1.0032,P=0.0320;WHR:OR 1.0029,95%CI:1.0006-1.0051,P=0.0129;WC:OR 1.0020,95%CI:1.0001-1.0038,P=0.0390].These associations remained robust after adjusting for confounding factors in multivariable MR analysis.Furthermore,a two-step MR analysis identified eight potential metabolic mediators,with one mediator showing a significant causal role in the relationship between obesity and cataract.CONCLUSION:This work highlights the importance of addressing obesity as a modifiable risk factor for cataracts,particularly through metabolic pathways.
基金supported by the Yanzhao Gold Talent Project of Hebei Province(NO.HJZD202506)。
文摘Objective Previous studies link lower body mass index(BMI)with increased obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD)risk,yet other body mass indicators may be more etioloically relevant.We dissected the causal association between body fat mass(FM)and OCD.Methods Summary statistics from genome-wide association studies of European ancestry were utilized to conduct two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.Heterogeneity,horizontal pleiotropy,and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness.Results The inverse variance weighting method demonstrated that a genetically predicted decrease in FM was causally associated with an increased OCD risk[odds ratio(OR)=0.680,95%confidence interval(CI):0.528–0.875,P=0.003].Similar estimates were obtained using the weighted median approach(OR=0.633,95%CI:0.438–0.915,P=0.015).Each standard deviation increases in genetically predicted body fat percentage corresponded to a reduced OCD risk(OR=0.638,95%CI:0.455–0.896,P=0.009).The sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings with no outlier instrument variables identified.Conclusion The negative causal association between FM and the risk of OCD suggests that the prevention or treatment of mental disorders should include not only the control of BMI but also fat distribution and body composition.
基金Supported by the Central High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding(No.BJ-2024-089).
文摘AIM:To explore the causal relationship between several possible behavioral factors and high myopia(HM)using multivariable Mendelian randomization(MVMR)approach and to find the mediators among them with mediation analysis.METHODS:The causal effects of several behavioral factors,including screen time,education time,time spent outdoors,and physical activity,on the risk of HM using univariable Mendelian randomization(MR)and MVMR analyses were first assessed.Genome-wide association study summary statistics of serum metabolites were also used in mediation analysis to determine the extent to which serum metabolites mediate the effects of behavioral factors on HM.RESULTS:MR analyses indicated that both increased time spent outdoors and a higher frequency of moderate physical activity significantly reduced the risk of HM.Further MVMR analysis confirmed that moderate physical activity independently contributed to a lower risk of HM.Additionally,MR analyses identified 13 serum metabolites significantly associated with HM,of which 12 were lipids and one was an amino acid derivative.Mediation analysis revealed that six lipid metabolites mediated the protective effects of moderate physical activity on HM,with the highest mediation proportion observed for 1-(1-enyl-palmitoyl)-GPC(p-16:0;30.83%).CONCLUSION:This study suggests that in addition to outdoor time,moderate physical activity habits may have an independent protective effect against HM and pointed to lipid metabolites as priority targets for the prevention due to low physical activity.These results emphasize the importance of physical activity and metabolic health in HM and underscore the need for further study of these complex associations.
基金Supported by the Hainan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(No.825RC898)Hainan Province Clinical Medical Center。
文摘AIM:To comprehensively assess the relationship between asthma and myopia based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey(NHANES)database combined with Mendelian randomization(MR).METHODS:Initially,20497 subjects from the complete questionnaire cycle in the NHANES database from 2005 to 2008 were included.By exclusion criteria,8460 subjects were screened with 1676 myopia samples and 6784 control samples.Subsequently,baseline characteristics,association analyses,risk stratification analyses,and receive operating characteristic curve(ROC)were used to investigate the associations between covariates and myopia.Then,the causal relationship was explored in depth by MR analysis,and was estimated the reliability by sensitivity analyses and directionality tests.RESULTS:Baseline characteristics illustrated a significant difference between myopia and controls for both asthma and covariates(excluding gender;P<0.05).The results in all three models indicated that asthma was strongly associated with myopia and the effect on myopia was not significantly confounded by other covariates[model 3:odd ratio(OR)=1.31;95%CI=1.07-1.62;P=0.0133].The risk stratification analysis again verified that asthma remained strongly associated with myopia and was a risk factor for myopia(P<0.05,OR>1).ROC proved that the model was accurate in its prediction[area under curve(AUC)=0.7].Subsequently,the causal relationship between them was statistically significant(P<0.05)according to the inverse variance weighted(IVW)method in MR.Scatterplot showed that asthma and myopia had significant positive causality and were not affected by confounders.Forest plot displayed an increasing risk of myopia on asthma(OR>1).The funnel plot demonstrated compliance with Mendel’s second law.Sensitivity analysis and directional analysis further confirmed the confidence of the MR analysis results and a unidirectional causal relationship between them.CONCLUSION:A significant association and causality between asthma and myopia is found through the NHANES database and MR analysis,which is important implications for public health policy development and clinical practice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82500432)the Heilongjiang Provincial Health Commission Scientific Research Project(Grant No.20240303010111).
文摘Background Recent studies have suggested a potential role of the oral microbiome in the development of cardiovascular diseases.This study aims to investigate the association between oral microbiota and cardiovascular disease risk,including atrial fibrillation,myocardial infarction,chronic heart failure,and hypertension.Methods We analyzed GWAS data from East Asian populations'oral microbiome,involving 2,017 tongue and 1,915 saliva samples from 2,984 individuals with whole-genome sequencing.Additionally,we sourced cardiovascular disease GWAS data from NBDC,including atrial fibrillation(8,180 cases,28,621 controls),myocardial infarction(14,992 cases,146,214 controls),chronic heart failure(10,540 cases,168,186 controls),and systolic blood pressure(145,505 individuals).Results Several oral microbiota taxa were found to be significantly associated with cardiovascular disease outcomes.Specific microbiota,such as Centipeda,Corynebacterium,and Pseudomonas E,were negatively correlated with heart failure.In contrast,taxa like Neisseria D and Actinomyces were associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and myocardial infarction.Additionally,certain oral microbiota showed correlations with changes in blood pressure,highlighting their potential role in hypertension.Conclusion Our findings suggest that the oral microbiota may influence the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases,providing new insights into the potential impact of oral health on cardiovascular risk.
文摘AIM:To investigate the potential causal associations between 41 inflammatory cytokines and myopia using a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)approach.METHODS:Publicly available genome-wide association study(GWAS)datasets were utilized for this two-sample MR analysis.Inflammatory cytokine-related GWAS data were extracted from The University of Bristol’s Research Data Repository,and myopia-related GWAS data were obtained from the FinnGen project.Single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)associated with inflammatory cytokines were systematically selected as instrumental variables(IVs)based on three rigorous criteria:relevance,independence,and exclusion of pleiotropy.Five MR methods were employed for causal inference:the inverse-variance weighted(IVW)method as the primary analysis,supplemented by MREgger regression,weighted median estimator,simple mode,and weighted mode approaches.Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness of the causal estimates.RESULTS:A total of 773 myopia-associated SNPs were identified.MR analysis revealed that higher levels of macrophage inflammatory protein 1-α(MIP-1α)were associated with a 17%reduced risk of myopia[odds ratio(OR)=0.83;95%confidence interval(CI):0.69-0.99;P<0.05].In contrast,elevated levels of eotaxin(OR=1.26;95%CI:1.07-1.47;P<0.01),stromal cell-derived factor-1α(SDF-1α;OR=1.68;95%CI:1.08-2.62;P<0.05),and interleukin-2 receptor subunit alpha(IL-2Rα;OR=1.25;95%CI:1.01-1.53;P<0.05)were significantly associated with an increased risk of myopia.Sensitivity analyses confirmed the reliability of these results.CONCLUSION:This study provides evidence supporting a causal relationship between specific inflammatory cytokines and myopia.MIP-1αmay act as a protective factor against myopia,while eotaxin,SDF-1α,and IL-2Rαare potential risk factors for myopia.These findings emphasize the critical role of inflammatory pathways in the pathogenesis of myopia,offering novel insights for the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for myopia.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82322059)the Chinese Academy of Medical·Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(2021-I2M-1-010)+1 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFC2500500)the National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding(2023-GSPRC-19).
文摘Objective Observational studies have shown inconsistent associations of loneliness or social isolation(SI)with ischemic heart disease(IHD),with unknown mediators.Methods Using data from genome-wide association studies of predominantly European ancestry,we performed a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization(MR)study to estimate causal effects of loneliness(N=487,647)and SI traits on IHD(N=184,305).SI traits included whether individuals lived alone,participated in various types of social activities,and how often they had contact with friends or family(N=459,830 to 461,369).A network MR study was conducted to evaluate the mediating roles of 20 candidate mediators,including metabolic,behavioral and psychological factors.Results Loneliness increased IHD risk(OR=2.129;95%confidence interval[CI]:1.380 to 3.285),mediated by body fat percentage,waist-hip ratio,total cholesterol,and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.For SI traits,only fewer social activities increased IHD risk(OR=1.815;95%CI:1.189 to 2.772),mediated by hypertension,high-density lipoprotein cholesterol,triglycerides,fasting insulin,and smoking cessation.No reverse causality of IHD with loneliness and SI was found.Conclusion These findings suggested more attention should be paid to individuals who feel lonely and have fewer social activities to prevent IHD,with several mediators as prioritized targets for intervention.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82273704)Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project(No.2023ZD0501400-2023ZD0501402)+4 种基金Beijing Hospitals Authority’s Ascent Plan(DFL20241102)Beijing Hospitals Authority Clinical Medicine Development of Special Funding Support(No.ZLRK202325)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2024M760152)Peking University Medicine Fund for World’s Leading Discipline or Discipline Cluster Development(No.BMU2022XKQ004)Science Foundation of Peking University Cancer Hospital(Nos.BJCH2024BJ02,XKFZ2410,BJCH2025CZ04,and 2022-27)。
文摘Objective:Based on multistage metabolomic profiling and Mendelian randomization analyses,the current study identified plasma metabolites that predicted the risk of developing gastric cancer(GC)and determined whether key metabolite levels modified the GC primary prevention effects.Methods:Plasma metabolites associated with GC risk were identified through a case-control study.Bi-directional two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses were performed to determine potential causal relationships utilizing the Shandong Intervention Trial(SIT),a nested case-control study of the Mass Intervention Trial in Linqu,Shandong province(MITS),China,the UK Biobank,and the Finn Gen project.Results:A higher genetic risk score for plasma L-aspartic acid was significantly associated with an increased GC risk in the northern Chinese population(SIT:HR=1.26 per 1 SD change,95%CI:1.07±1.49;MITS:HR=1.07,95%CI:1.00±1.14)and an increased gastric adenocarcinoma risk in Finn Gen(OR=1.68,95%CI:1.16±2.45).Genetically predicted plasma L-aspartic acid levels also modified the GC primary prevention effects with the beneficial effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication notably observed among individuals within the top quartile of L-aspartic acid level(P-interaction=0.098)and the beneficial effect of garlic supplementation only for those within the lowest quartile of L-aspartic acid level(P-interaction=0.02).Conclusions:Elevated plasma L-aspartic acid levels significantly increased the risk of developing GC and modified the effects of GC primary prevention.Further studies from other populations are warranted to validate the modification effect of plasma L-aspartic acid levels on GC prevention and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
文摘Objective Vitamin deficiencies,particularly in vitamins A,B12,and D,are prevalent across populations and contribute significantly to a range of health issues.While these deficiencies are well documented,the underlying etiology remains complex.Recent studies suggest a close link between the gut microbiota and the synthesis,absorption,and metabolism of these vitamins.However,the specific causal relationships between the gut microbiota composition and vitamin deficiencies remain poorly understood.Identifying key bacterial species and understanding their role in vitamin metabolism could provide critical insights for targeted interventions.Methods We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR)study to assess the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and vitamin deficiencies(A,B12,D).The genome-wide association study data for vitamin deficiencies were sourced from the FinnGen biobank,and the gut microbiota data were from the MiBioGen consortium.MR analyses included inverse variance-weighted(IVW),MR‒Egger,weighted median,and weighted mode approaches.Sensitivity analyses and reverse causality assessments were performed to ensure robustness and validate the findings.Results After FDR adjustment,vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with the class Verrucomicrobiae,order Verrucomicrobiales,family Verrucomicrobiaceae,and genus Akkermansia.Vitamin A deficiency was associated with the phylum Firmicutes and the genera Fusicatenibacter and Ruminiclostridium 6.Additional associations for vitamin B12 deficiency included the Enterobacteriaceae and Rhodospirillaceae and the genera Coprococcus 2,Lactococcus,and Ruminococcaceae UCG002.Vitamin D deficiency was associated with the genera Allisonella,Eubacterium,and Tyzzerella 3.Lachnospiraceae and Lactococcus were common risk factors for both B12 and D deficiency.Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings against heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy,and reverse MR tests indicated no evidence of reverse causality.Conclusions Our findings reveal a possible causal relationship between specific gut microbiota characteristics and vitamin A,B12 and D deficiencies,providing a theoretical basis for addressing these nutritional deficiencies through the modulation of the gut microbiota in the future and laying the groundwork for related interventions.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province,China(2024JJ7627).
文摘Objective:Gut microbiota(GM)and blood metabolites are associated with the development of urticaria,yet their specific causal relationships in East Asian populations remain unclear.This study aims to elucidate the causal and mediating relationships among GM,blood metabolites,and urticaria in East Asians using Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.Methods:Summary-level statistics for 500 GM taxa,112 blood metabolites,and urticaria were obtained from publicly available Genome-Wide Association Studies(GWAS)datasets.Bidirectional MR analyses were performed to examine causal associations among the GM,blood metabolites,and urticaria.The inverse variance weighted(IVW)method served as the primary analytical approach,supplemented by MR-Egger,weighted median,simple mode,and weighted mode methods.Sensitivity analyses included heterogeneity tests,horizontal pleiotropy assessments,and leave-one-out analyses.Mediation analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential mediating effects of blood metabolites on the causal pathways between GM and urticaria.Results:MR analyses identified 12 GM taxa exhibiting significant causal effects on urticaria susceptibility.Nine taxa,such as MF0017_galactose_degradation(OR=1.461,95%CI 1.098 to 1.944,P=0.009),were associated with increased urticaria risk.Three taxa,such as MF0001_arabinoxylan_degradation(OR=0.846,95%CI 0.737 to 0.973,P=0.019),showed protective effects with increased abundance.Additionally,6 blood metabolites demonstrated causal associations with urticaria.Notably,the risk of developing urticaria increases with rising fasting plasma glucose(FPG)levels(OR=1.971,95%CI 1.089 to 3.567,P=0.025).Mediation analysis further demonstrated that FPG partially mediated the protective effect of MF0001_arabinoxylan_degradation on urticaria,accounting for 11.30%of the total effect.Conclusion:This study has delineated specific GM taxa and blood metabolites that hold causal relevance to urticaria in East Asian populations.Notably,arabinogalactan degradation potentially mitigates urticaria risk via reducing FPG concentrations,offering genetic evidence to support therapeutic strategies targeting GM modulation and glucose regulation.
基金Supported by Xi’an Science and Technology Program Project(No.24YXYJ0108)Support Projects of Xi’an Children’s Hospital(No.2024I07).
文摘AIM:To investigate the causal relationship between dietary intake and myopia using Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.METHODS:Genome-wide association study(GWAS)data from the IEU Open GWAS database were utilized to examine associations between myopia and various dietary factors.MR analysis,incorporating both univariable and multivariable approaches,assessed the impact of food intake on myopia risk through five analytical methods,with inverse variance weighted(IVW)serving as the primary reference.Sensitivity analyses,including heterogeneity assessment,horizontal pleiotropy evaluation,and leave-oneout analysis,were conducted to validate the MR findings.RESULTS:Univariable MR analysis identified a causal link between food intake and myopia.Consumption of breaded fish,canned soup,sweet biscuits,and certain fruits correlated with a lower risk of myopia,whereas intake of low-calorie hot chocolate and cereal was associated with an increased risk.Multivariable MR analysis further confirmed that breaded fish consumption exerted a direct protective effect against myopia,particularly when consumed alongside other dietary components.These findings highlight the intricate interplay between specific dietary factors and myopia development,offering valuable insights for further research.CONCLUSION:MR analysis provides evidence supporting a potential causal relationship between breaded fish intake and myopia,underscoring its relevance in targeted myopia prevention strategies.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China[No.82270667]supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China[Nos U23A20492 and 8217033803]+2 种基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China[No.82170559]supported by the Natural Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars of Hunan Province[No.2025JJ40083]the Natural Science Foundation of Changsha[No.kq2502174].
文摘Background:Obesity is recognized as a prominent contributing factor for pancreatic diseases;however,the mechanisms remain elusive.We aimed to identify the mediating role of circulating proteins in these associations.Methods:A two-step Mendelian randomization(MR)was conducted to investigate associations between nine obesity indicators,thousands of circulating proteins,with three pancreatic diseases(acute pancreatitis,chronic pancreatitis,and pancreatic carcinoma).Colocalization analyses were performed to validate these associations.Protein mediating networks among obesity indicators and pancreatic diseases were investigated by mediation analysis.Results:Genetically predicted circulating levels of 4,2,and 2 proteins were associated with acute pancreatitis,chronic pancreatitis,and pancreatic carcinoma,respectively.In mediation analysis,decreased chymotrypsin B2(CTRB2)levels mediated 1.03%(95%CI[confidence interval]0.02%-2.03%)of the effects of body mass index on acute pancreatitis.Increased R-spondin 3(RSPO3)levels mediated the effects of body mass index(2.95%,95%CI 0.18%-5.73%),body fat percentage(4.53%,95%CI 1.11%-7.96%),waist-hip ratio(8.48%,95%CI 3.11%-13.86%),and visceral adipose tissue(3.93%,95%CI 0.64%-7.22%)on acute pancreatitis.We also found increased klotho beta(KLOTB)levels mediated the effects of waist-hip ratio(7.01%,95%CI 3.30%-10.71%)and visceral adipose tissue(8.98%,95%CI 4.55%-13.41%)on chronic pancreatitis,and decreased receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1(ROR1)levels mediated the effects of body mass index(10.39%,95%CI 3.36%-17.42%)and visceral adipose tissue(6.29%,95%CI 1.00%-11.58%)on pancreatic carcinoma.Conclusions:The MR suggests that circulating CTRB2,RSPO3,KLOTB,and ROR1 proteins may mediate associations between obesity and pancreatic diseases.
基金Supported by Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(No.JCYJ20220530152005013,No.JCYJ20230807114605011)Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen(No.SZZYSM202411007).
文摘In recent years,Mendelian randomization(MR)has been increasingly utilized,leveraging genetic variants as instrumental variables.This approach significantly mitigates confounder effects and reverse causation,precisely clarifying the causal links between exposures and outcomes.MR’s unique advantages have made it instrumental in medicine,especially in elucidating glaucoma’s etiology.It facilitates the identification of potential risk factors,laying the groundwork for developing preventative and therapeutic strategies against glaucoma.Recent MR research has delved into diverse potential glaucoma risk factors,including behavioral habits,metabolic profiles,and their causative linkage to the disease.This review encapsulates MR’s analysis in glaucoma etiology,heralding new avenues for understanding underlying mechanisms and establishing causality.
基金by grants from the Jiangsu Province 333 High-level Talent Training Project(Grant No.LGY2016010)the Nanjing Science and Technology Development Plan(Grant No.201715003)the Jiangsu Province Six Talent Peaks(Grant No.WSN-030).
文摘Dear Editor,Observational studies in epidemiology have identified a correlation between hypothyroidism and cholelithiasis[1–2].However,the causal relationship between the two diseases remains unclear.To investigate the potential causal relationship,we employed a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis.
基金supported by the Key Support Project of Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund of National Natural Science Foundation of China(U20A20398)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82104454,82374399)+1 种基金the Clinical Medical Research Transformation Project of Anhui Province(202304295107020111)the Natural Science Research Key Project of Anhui Provincial Department of Education(KJ2021A0542).
文摘Background:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a prevalent respiratory ailment that has risen to become the foremost cause of mortality globally,and statins are a widely used class of lipid-modifying drugs.Data from some observational studies suggest an association between statins use and COPD.Objectives:The main objective of this study was to investigate whether lipids and apolipoproteins are bidirectionally causally associated with COPD at the genetic level using a Mendelian randomization(MR)design,and to determine the potential role of circulating inflammatory proteins as mediators in this association.Methods:The publicly available Genome-Wide Association Study(GWAS)database was utilised for the purposes of the analysis.The data on high-density lipoprotein(HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein(LDL-C),triglycerides(TG),apolipoprotein A-1(ApoA1),and apolipoprotein B(ApoB)were obtained from the UK BioBank,while the COPD dataset was obtained from the FinnGen BioBank R11(number of cases:21,617,number of controls:372,627).Furthermore,data were gathered on genetic variants linked to inflammatory processes,encompassing 91 circulating inflammatory proteins(n=14,823 individuals).A two-sample MR study was conducted using these data to assess the association between HDL-C,LDL-C,TG,ApoA1,and ApoB with the risk of COPD.Furthermore,in order to investigate the potential mediating influence of inflammatory factor alterations between lipids and COPD,a two-step Mendelian randomization(MR)mediation analysis was conducted.Results:The forward MR methods identified two lipids that were found to have a causal relationship with the development of COPD.An elevated level of LDL-C and ApoB was found to be associated with a diminished risk of COPD.Furthermore,the researchers identified circulating inflammatory factors that were determined to be the causal agents in the development of COPD.Mediation analysis indicated that the inflammatory protein S100-A12 may act as a mediator between the LDL-C and COPD pathways.Conclusion:The present MR study provides genetic evidence for a causal relationship between lipids and apolipoproteins and COPD,as well as identifying the inflammatory protein S100-A12 as a potential mediator of the COPD association.The findings offer valuable insights into the mechanistic studies of statins for COPD and potential targets for disease intervention and treatment.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.82220108002 to F.C.,82273737 to R.Z.,82473728 to Y.W.)the US National Institutes of Health(Grant Nos.CA209414,HL060710,ES000002 to D.C.C.,CA209414,CA249096 to Y.L.)the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD).R.Z.was partially supported by the Qing Lan Project of the Higher Education Institutions of Jiangsu Province and the Outstanding Young-Level Academic Leadership Training Program of Nanjing Medical University.
文摘Emerging evidence highlights the role of thyroid hormones in cancer,although findings are controversial.Research on thyroid-related traits in lung carcinogenesis is limited.Using UK Biobank data,we performed bidirectional Mendelian randomization(MR)to assess causal associations between lung cancer risk and thyroid dysfunction(hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)or functional traits(free thyroxine[FT4]and normal-range thyroid-stimulating hormone[TSH]).Furthermore,in the smoking-behavior-stratified MR analysis,we evaluated the mediating effect of thyroid-related phenotypes on the association between smoking behaviors and lung cancer.We demonstrated significant associations between lung cancer risk and hypothyroidism(hazard ratio[HR]=1.14,95%confidence interval[CI]=1.03–1.26,P=0.009)and hyperthyroidism(HR=1.55,95%CI=1.29–1.87,P=1.90×10^(-6))in the UKB.Moreover,the MR analysis indicated a causal effect of thyroid dysfunction on lung cancer risk(ORinverse variance weighted[IVW]=1.09,95%CI=1.05–1.13,P=3.12×10^(-6)for hypothyroidism;ORIVW=1.08,95%CI=1.04–1.12,P=8.14×10^(-5)for hyperthyroidism).We found that FT4 levels were protective against lung cancer risk(ORIVW=0.93,95%CI=0.87–0.99,P=0.030).Additionally,the stratified MR analysis demonstrated distinct causal effects of thyroid dysfunction on lung cancer risk among smokers.Hyperthyroidism mediated the effect of smoking behaviors,especially the age of smoking initiation(17.66%mediated),on lung cancer risk.Thus,thyroid dysfunction phenotypes play causal roles in lung cancer development exclusively among smokers and act as mediators in the causal pathway from smoking to lung cancer.
基金the Central Guidance for Regional Science and Technology Development Projects(YDZJSX2024B010)Research project of Shanxi Provincial Health Commission(2024067)。
文摘Objective Pneumoconiosis,a lung disease caused by irreversible fibrosis,represents a significant public health burden.This study investigates the causal relationships between gut microbiota,gene methylation,gene expression,protein levels,and pneumoconiosis using a multi-omics approach and Mendelian randomization(MR).Methods We analyzed gut microbiota data from MiBioGen and Esteban et al.to assess their potential causal effects on pneumoconiosis subtypes(asbestosis,silicosis,and inorganic pneumoconiosis)using conventional and summary-data-based MR(SMR).Gene methylation and expression data from Genotype-Tissue Expression and eQTLGen,along with protein level data from deCODE and UK Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project,were examined in relation to pneumoconiosis data from FinnGen.To validate our findings,we assessed self-measured gut flora from a pneumoconiosis cohort and performed fine mapping,drug prediction,molecular docking,and Phenome-Wide Association Studies to explore relevant phenotypes of key genes.Results Three core gut microorganisms were identified:Romboutsia(OR=0.249)as a protective factor against silicosis,Pasteurellaceae(OR=3.207)and Haemophilus parainfluenzae(OR=2.343)as risk factors for inorganic pneumoconiosis.Additionally,mapping and quantitative trait loci analyses revealed that the genes VIM,STX8,and MIF were significantly associated with pneumoconiosis risk.Conclusions This multi-omics study highlights the associations between gut microbiota and key genes(VIM,STX8,MIF)with pneumoconiosis,offering insights into potential therapeutic targets and personalized treatment strategies.
文摘BACKGROUND:Whether lipid-modifying drugs directly impact the outcome of sepsis remains uncertain.Therefore,systematic investigations are needed to explore the potential impact of lipid-related therapies on sepsis outcomes and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involving circulating inflammatory cytokines,which may play critical roles in the pathogenesis of sepsis.This study aimed to utilize drug-target Mendelian randomization to assess the direct causal effects of genetically proxied lipid-modifying therapies on sepsis outcomes.METHODS:First,a two-sample Mendelian randomization study was conducted to validate the causal associations among high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),and sepsis.A subsequent drug-target Mendelian randomization study assessed the direct causal effects of genetical y proxied lipid-modifying therapies on the risk of sepsis,sepsis-related critical care admission,and sepsis-related death.The identified lipid-modifying drug targets were subsequently explored for direct causal relationships with 36 circulating inflammatory cytokines.Finally,enrichment analyses of the identified cytokines were conducted to explore the potential relationships of lipid-modifying drugs with the inflammatory response.RESULTS:Genetically proxied cholesteryl ester transfer protein(CETP) inhibitors were significantly associated with sepsis-related critical care admission(OR=0.84,95% CI [0.74,0.95],P=0.008,) and sepsisrelated death(OR=0.68,95% CI [0.52,0.88],P=0.004).The genetically proxied CETP inhibitors were strongly associated with the levels of 15 circulating inflammatory cytokines.Enrichment analyses indicated that CETP inhibitors may modulate inflammatory cytokines and influence the inflammatory response pathway.CONCLUSION:This study supports a causal effect of genetically proxied CETP inhibitors in reducing the risk of sepsis-related critical care admission and death.These findings suggest that the underlying mechanism may involve the modulation of some circulating inflammatory cytokines,influencing the inflammatory response pathway.
文摘Objective To clarify the causal relationship between the level of cytoplasmic unactivated mineralocorticoid receptor(MR)and the development of tubulointerstitial nephritis(TIN),and to evaluate the impact of MR on dyslipidemia,particularly secondary hyperlipemia,in patients with diabetic kidney disease.Methods We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization study using genome-wide association study(GWAS)summary data.Genetic variants associated with MR levels were selected as exposures,with TIN and lipid profiles[including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),triglyceride,and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol]as outcomes.A two-step Mendelian randomization approach was used to assess TIN as a mediator,employing inverse variance weighted regression as the primary analysis,supplemented by Mendelian randomization-Egger,weighted median,and sensitivity analyses.Results Cytoplasmic unactivated MR level exhibited a significant causal association with a decreased risk of TIN(OR=0.8598,95%CI[0.7775-0.9508],P<0.001).Although no significant causal relationship was identified between MR level and secondary hyperlipemia,a potential association of cytoplasmic unactivated MR level with lower LDL-C levels was observed(OR=0.9901,95%CI[0.9821-0.9983],P=0.018).Additionally,TIN exhibited causal links with secondary hyperlipemia(OR=1.0016,95%CI[1.0002-1.0029],P=0.020)and elevated LDL-C(OR=1.0111,95%CI[1.0024-1.0199],P=0.012),particularly LDL-C in European males(OR=1.0230,95%CI[1.0103-1.0358],P<0.001).Inverse Mendelian randomization analysis revealed causal relationships between TIN and genetically predicted triglyceride(OR=0.7027,95%CI[0.6189-0.7978],P<0.001),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(OR=1.1247,95%CI[1.0019-1.2626],P=0.046),and LDL-C(OR=0.8423,95%CI[0.7220-0.9827],P=0.029).Notably,TIN mediated 16.7%of the causal association between MR and LDL-C levels.Conclusions MR plays a critical role in the development of TIN and lipid metabolism,highlighting the potential of MR-antagonists in reducing renal damage and lipid metabolism-associated complications.
