Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
18:30
Rat Mesentery Angiogenesis Assay
Published on: June 18, 2011
13.9K
Deciphering the association between gut microbiome and varicose veins: A mendelian randomization study
Yu Tian1,2, Furong Hao1, Jiantao Zhang1
1Vascular Surgery Department, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, China.
Phlebology
|March 28, 2025
Summary
This study reveals specific gut bacteria linked to varicose veins. Certain microbes may protect against varicose veins, while others increase risk, offering new therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Genetics
- Microbiome research
Background:
- Varicose veins are influenced by traditional risk factors.
- The gut microbiome's role in varicose veins is largely unknown.
- This study investigates the gut microbiome's causal link to varicose veins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the association between gut microbial taxa and varicose veins.
- To identify specific gut bacteria that may cause or protect against varicose veins.
- To utilize a Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach for causal inference.
Main Methods:
- Employed Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis.
- Utilized genome-wide association study datasets (MiBioGen Consortium, Finnish database).
- Performed rigorous statistical selection of instrumental variables and sensitivity analyses.
Main Results:
- Genus *Terrisporobacter*, *Coprococcus2*, and *Ruminococcus* gnavus group showed a protective association.
- Family Ruminococcaceae, genus *Flavonifractor*, and genus *Ruminococcaceae*UCG009 were associated with increased risk.
- No evidence of varicose veins influencing gut microbiota abundance was found.
Conclusions:
- Specific gut microbiota are associated with varicose veins.
- Findings suggest potential novel therapeutic targets for varicose veins.
- Microbiome research offers a basis for future prevention and treatment strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:11Genome-wide Association Studies-GWAS
Genome-wide association studies or GWAS are used to identify whether common SNPs are associated with certain diseases. Suppose specific SNPs are more frequently observed in individuals with a particular disease than those without the disease. In that case, those SNPs are said to be associated with the disease. Chi-square analysis is performed to check the probability of the allele likely to be associated with the disease.
GWAS does not require the identification of the target gene involved in...
GWAS does not require the identification of the target gene involved in...
01:24Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
01:26Varicose Veins I: Introduction
Varicose veins, or varicosities, are abnormally dilated and twisted superficial veins caused by venous valve incompetence. This condition commonly affects the lower extremities, especially the saphenous veins, due to the higher pressure from prolonged standing and walking. However, varicosities can also occur in other areas, such as the esophagus, vulva, spermatic cords, and anorectal region.Etiology and typesPrimary varicose veins, often idiopathic, are more common in women due to inherent...
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...