Causal relationship between sarcopenia and rotator cuff tears: a Mendelian randomization study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Orthopedics
• Genetics

Background:

• Sarcopenia and rotator cuff tears are prevalent conditions in the elderly population.
• The influence of sarcopenia on rotator cuff tear management is often underestimated.
• This research investigates the connection between sarcopenia traits and rotator cuff tears.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the causal relationship between sarcopenia-related traits and rotator cuff tears.
• To assess the impact of appendicular lean mass, walking pace, and hand grip strength on rotator cuff tear risk.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses with genome-wide association study data.
• Examined appendicular lean mass (ALM), usual walking pace, and low hand grip strength as exposures.
• Employed multivariate Mendelian randomization (MVMR) to discern direct effects of muscle traits.

Main Results:

• Univariate MR indicated a causal link between ALM and usual walking pace with rotator cuff tears.
• Low hand grip strength did not show a significant causal relationship with rotator cuff tears.
• MVMR confirmed that ALM and walking pace causally influence rotator cuff tear risk.

Conclusions:

• A genetic basis for the relationship between sarcopenia and rotator cuff tears was established.
• Sarcopenia traits, specifically reduced muscle mass and physical function, elevate rotator cuff tear risk.
• Findings offer novel clinical perspectives for optimizing rotator cuff tear treatment.