Causal relationship between graves' disease and mental disorders: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Psychiatry
• Genetic Epidemiology

Background:

• Graves' disease (GD) frequently co-occurs with mental disorders, but causal links are not well-established.
• Understanding the relationship between GD and mental health conditions is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the bidirectional causal relationship between Graves' disease and common mental disorders.
• Utilizing a robust Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to assess genetic predispositions.

Main Methods:

• Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for GD and mental disorders (MDD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD) were analyzed.
• Bidirectional Mendelian randomization, primarily using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method.
• Sensitivity analyses included Cochran's Q test and MR-Egger intercept to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between genetic susceptibility to Graves' disease and bipolar disorder (OR = 1.073).
• No causal associations were detected between Graves' disease and major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, or ADHD.
• No evidence of a causal link from common mental disorders to Graves' disease was observed.

Conclusions:

• Graves' disease plays a causal role in the increased risk of developing bipolar disorder.
• Clinical attention to mental health, particularly bipolar disorder, is warranted for individuals with Graves' disease.