A Mendelian randomization study: physical activities and chronic kidney disease

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Genetics
• Public Health

Background:

• Physical activity is linked to reduced chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk, but causality is unclear.
• CKD may also lead to decreased physical activity, suggesting a bidirectional relationship.
• Genetic methods can help elucidate causal links between physical activity and kidney function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal relationship between physical activity and CKD.
• To examine potential bidirectional associations between physical activity and kidney function.
• To provide robust evidence using genetic data for public health recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized UK Biobank data for physical activity phenotypes (n=460,376).
• Employed CKDGen Consortium data for kidney function (eGFR) and CKD status (n=480,698).
• Applied Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, including bidirectional MR, to assess causality.

Main Results:

• Heavy DIY activities (e.g., weeding, carpentry) were causally associated with a decreased risk of CKD (OR=0.287, p=0.0065).
• Heavy DIY activities also showed a causal association with improved estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) (β=0.036, p=0.021).
• No significant causal links were found for other activities like walking, sports, or light DIY; no reverse causality was detected.

Conclusions:

• Heavy, vigorous physical activity, specifically heavy DIY tasks, offers a protective effect on kidney function.
• This provides reliable genetic evidence that such activities can lower CKD risk.
• Findings support the role of specific intense physical activities in kidney disease prevention strategies.