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Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Causal Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Bidirectional Two-Sample
Wen-Jia Li1, Chen Yao2, Lu Han1
1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Bao'an Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen City, People's Republic of China.
This study reveals 11 gut bacteria species causally linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Certain bacteria protect against COPD, while others, like Holdemanella and Marvinbryantia, increase risk, offering targets for new therapies.
Area of Science:
- Microbiome research
- Pulmonary medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Gut microbiota's role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasingly studied.
- The causal relationship between gut microbiota and COPD remains unclear.
- This research investigates whether gut microbiota influences COPD development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the causal relationship between gut microbiota and COPD.
- To identify specific gut bacteria associated with COPD risk or protection.
- To provide insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment of COPD.
Main Methods:
- Utilized bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis on genome-wide association study (GWAS) data.
- Employed MR-Egger regression, inverse variance-weighted (IVW), and weighted median methods.
- Conducted heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses to ensure result reliability.
Main Results:
- Identified 11 gut microbiota species associated with COPD.
- Bacteroidia, Collinsella, and others showed protective effects against COPD.
- Holdemanella and Marvinbryantia were identified as risk factors, increasing COPD risk by 1.14 and 1.15-fold, respectively.
- Reverse MR analysis found no causal link from COPD to gut microbiota.
Conclusions:
- Established a causal link between 11 gut microbiota species and COPD.
- Findings offer potential targets for novel COPD therapies.
- Further clinical studies are needed to confirm mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Development of Human Microbiota
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features

