Bidirectional causal link between inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease: A two-sample mendelian randomization...

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Observational studies suggest a correlation between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease.
• The precise causal relationship between IBD and celiac disease remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the bidirectional causal relationships between IBD and celiac disease using a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach.
• To assess potential causal links between ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn's disease (CD), and celiac disease.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
• Employed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from genome-wide association studies (GWASs).
• Conducted heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and sensitivity analyses to validate MR results.

Main Results:

• A significant causal relationship was found between IBD and celiac disease (IVW OR = 1.0828, p = 0.0039).
• A causal link was also observed between Crohn's disease (CD) and celiac disease (IVW OR = 1.0807, p = 0.0058).
• Suggestive positive causality was found from celiac disease to CD (IVW OR = 1.0366, p = 0.0319), with no significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy.

Conclusions:

• Mendelian randomization analysis revealed a positive causal link between IBD and celiac disease in the European population.
• Findings suggest IBD may causally influence the development of celiac disease.
• Discussed implications for disease prevention and clinical management strategies.