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Causal Effects of Circulating Micronutrients on Cognitive Function: Evidence From a Mendelian Randomization Study
Sen-Fu Yuan1, Chang-Hai Long1, Xu Zhang1
1Department of Pathology, The First People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, China.
Brain and Behavior
|April 22, 2025
Summary
Specific micronutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin E, phosphorus, and selenium may support cognitive health. However, excessive vitamin A1 and vitamin B6 could negatively impact cognitive function, requiring further research.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Neuroscience
- Genetic Epidemiology
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is a significant global health issue, particularly in aging populations.
- Micronutrients are increasingly recognized for their potential role in cognitive health and neuroprotection.
- Causal links between specific micronutrients and cognitive function require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal impact of 16 circulating micronutrients on various cognitive functions.
- To leverage Mendelian randomization to explore nutrient-brain relationships.
- To identify specific micronutrients that may influence cognitive performance.
Main Methods:
- A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was utilized.
- Genetic variants served as instrumental variables for 16 circulating micronutrients.
- Cognitive outcomes (reaction time, performance, memory, intelligence) were analyzed using GWAS data.
Main Results:
- Positive associations were found between beta-carotene and phosphorus with reaction time.
- Vitamin E showed a positive link to cognitive performance; Vitamin B6 exhibited a negative association.
- Selenium correlated positively with fluid intelligence, while high Vitamin A1 levels were linked to reduced fluid intelligence.
Conclusions:
- Specific micronutrients (beta-carotene, phosphorus, selenium, Vitamin E) show potential benefits for cognitive health.
- Excessive intake of Vitamin A1 and Vitamin B6 may pose risks to cognitive function.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore mechanisms.
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