Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
11:22
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
27.9K
Cross-talk between the gut microbiota and hypothyroidism: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study.
Chao Shi1, Jie Chen1, Siying He1
1Department of Laboratory, Jinhua Central Hospital, Zhejiang, Jinhua, China.
Frontiers in Nutrition
|April 2, 2024
Summary
This study found that the gut bacterium Akkermansia may causally inhibit hypothyroidism. Further research is needed to confirm the protective effects of probiotics on hypothyroidism.
Area of Science:
- Microbiome research
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Observational studies suggest a link between gut microbiota composition and hypothyroidism.
- The causal role of gut microbiota in hypothyroidism remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential causal relationship between gut microbiota and hypothyroidism using a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach.
Main Methods:
- Utilized genome-wide association study data from MiBioGen and FinnGen consortiums.
- Employed various Mendelian randomization methods including MR-Egger, weighted median, and inverse variance weighted (IVW).
- Performed both forward and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses to assess causality and potential reverse causation.
Main Results:
- A causal link was identified where increased Akkermansia may inhibit hypothyroidism (OR=0.84).
- Other bacteria such as Anaerostipes, Butyrivibrio, Holdemania, Intestinimonas, Ruminiclostridium5, and Ruminococcaceae UCG-011 also showed potential causal associations.
- Reverse Mendelian randomization indicated no significant reverse effect of hypothyroidism on gut microbiota composition.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest a causal role for Akkermansia in inhibiting hypothyroidism.
- Further randomized controlled trials are warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of probiotics for hypothyroidism.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Microorganisms colonize various regions of the human body, including the mouth, nasal passages, throat, stomach, intestines, urogenital tract, and skin. The total number of microbial cells is estimated to range from 10¹³ to 10¹⁴—comparable to, or exceeding, the number of human somatic cells. This host–microbiome relationship has led to the conceptualization of humans as supraorganisms, wherein microbial communities perform vital roles in development, immunity, and disease...
01:30Development of Human Microbiota
The human microbiota begins developing at birth and undergoes continual change as we age. Infancy marks a critical period of microbial sensitivity, offering a “window of opportunity” during which beneficial microbes help mature the immune system. By age three, children typically develop a more stable and diverse microbial community. Newborns acquire microbes from their immediate environment; vaginal delivery favors maternal vaginal microbes, while cesarean births favor microbes from the skin...
01:27The Oral Microbiota
The oral microbiome includes a complex ecosystem comprising over 700 microbial species, identified through genomic sequencing and culture-based analyses to date. This community includes a core microbiome, found universally among individuals, and a variable component influenced by environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and host genetics. Site-specific conditions, including oxygen gradients, pH levels, and nutrient availability, determine the spatial distribution of these microorganisms...
01:18Functions of the Gut Microbiota
The gut microbiota includes trillions of microorganisms that colonize the human gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. This complex ecosystem plays a critical role in maintaining intestinal and systemic health. Most of these microbes inhabit the large intestine, establishing a relatively stable and diverse community that contributes to gut homeostasis through various metabolic, immunological, and protective mechanisms.Dominant bacterial phyla, such as...
01:22Gut-Brain Axis
The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...
01:23Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Hypothyroidism is a disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy balance, and multiple organ systems.TypesHypothyroidism is classified based on the level of dysfunction. Primary hypothyroidism results from intrinsic thyroid gland dysfunction, causing reduced hormone production despite normal or increased stimulation. Secondary hypothyroidism arises from inadequate thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secretion by the pituitary. Tertiary...