The Causal Effect Between Human Microbiota and Scabies: A Study from the Genetic Perspective

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Dermatology

Background:

• Previous research suggested a link between human flora and scabies.
• A definitive causal relationship between human microbiota and scabies remained unproven.
• Establishing causality is crucial for advancing research on human flora and scabies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal effect of human intestinal and skin flora on scabies.
• To provide robust evidence supporting the role of microbiota in scabies etiology.

Main Methods:

• Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed.
• Data from large-scale studies on intestinal flora, skin flora, and scabies (FinnGen database) were utilized.
• Multiple MR methods and sensitivity analyses enhanced result reliability and robustness.

Main Results:

• A causal effect of 13 specific intestinal flora on scabies was identified.
• A causal effect of 7 specific skin flora on scabies was identified.

Conclusions:

• This study demonstrates a causal relationship between intestinal and skin flora and scabies.
• Findings align with previous observational studies and strengthen the etiological understanding of scabies.
• Results support the potential development of probiotic agents for scabies prevention and treatment.