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Exploring the causal relationship between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and kidney cancer: a Mendelian
Weifeng Liu1, Yufei Wang1, Yibin Zhou1
1Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
Background:
The causal link between kidney cancer and omega-3/6 (ω-3/6) fatty acids is yet to be clearly established. Therefore, the objective of our study was to investigate these potential causal relationships.
Methods:
We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the possible causal association between ω-3/6 fatty acids and kidney cancer. We utilized the random effect inverse variance weighted (IVW) method as our primary analytical approach for the two-sample MR analysis. In addition, sensitivity analyses such as heterogeneity tests, pleiotropy analyses, and leave-one-out analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the MR analysis results.
Results:
The IVW method showed statistically significant associations between ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids and increased risk of kidney cancer. The result for ω-3 and ω-6 were [odds ratio (OR) =1.27; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-1.55; P=0.02] and (OR =1.56; 95% CI: 1.17-2.09; P=0.003), respectively. Moreover, in the results of sensitivity analyses, no apparent horizontal gene pleiotropy nor heterogeneity was observed. After performing "the leave-one-out" sensitivity analysis of the data one by one, no single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) sites in each instrumental variable (IV) were found to have greatly affected the disease outcome.
Conclusions:
Elevated serum ω-3/6 fatty acids levels are causally associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor dietary intake and properly intervene to lower these levels in those at risk of kidney cancer.
Insights
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are causally linked to a higher risk of kidney cancer. Monitoring dietary intake of these fatty acids is crucial for individuals at risk.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Epidemiology
- Genetic Epidemiology
Background:
- The relationship between omega-3/6 (ω-3/6) fatty acids and kidney cancer risk is not well understood.
- Investigating potential causal links is essential for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the potential causal association between ω-3/6 fatty acids and kidney cancer.
- To provide evidence for dietary recommendations and interventions.
Main Methods:
- A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed.
- The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was the primary analytical approach.
- Sensitivity analyses including heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and leave-one-out analyses were conducted to ensure robustness.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant associations were found between higher levels of ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids and an increased risk of kidney cancer (OR=1.27, P=0.02 for ω-3; OR=1.56, P=0.003 for ω-6).
- Sensitivity analyses indicated no significant heterogeneity or horizontal gene pleiotropy.
- Leave-one-out analyses confirmed that no single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) unduly influenced the results.
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum ω-3/6 fatty acids are causally associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.
- Monitoring dietary intake and implementing interventions to lower ω-3/6 fatty acid levels may be important for kidney cancer prevention.
