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A multilayered genetic structure analysis between inflammatory bowel disease and bone density/osteoporosis
Mengting Qin1, Xinhong Liu2, Qinghua Luo3
1Department of Anorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University Affiliated Jiaxing TCM Hospital, Jiaxing, China.
Plos One
|November 20, 2025
Summary
This study provides strong genetic evidence linking inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporosis. Shared genetic factors, including the Wnt signaling pathway, may underlie this comorbidity.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Gastroenterology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The relationship between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and decreased bone mineral density (BMD) or osteoporosis remains debated.
- Genetic factors influencing this association require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the genetic underpinnings of the comorbidity between IBD and BMD/osteoporosis.
- To identify shared genetic loci and pathways involved in both conditions.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data from large cohorts for IBD, Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), BMD, and osteoporosis were analyzed.
- Genetic correlations (Rg), local genetic patterns, and Mendelian randomization (MR) were assessed.
- Conditional/conjunctional false discovery rate (cond/conjFDR) methods identified shared genetic loci.
Main Results:
- Significant genome-wide genetic correlations were observed between IBD (and its subtypes) and BMD/osteoporosis.
- Several shared genetic loci and chromosomal regions were identified through various analytical approaches.
- The Wnt signaling pathway was significantly enriched in both IBD and BMD/osteoporosis.
Conclusions:
- This study presents robust genetic evidence supporting the comorbidity of IBD with BMD and osteoporosis.
- Identified shared genetic factors and pathways offer insights into potential biological mechanisms.
- Findings contribute to a better understanding for clinical research and patient management.
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