Investigating the causal relationship between multimodal brain imaging-derived phenotypes and insomnia: A Mendelian
Hanqing Gu1, Ying Jiang1, Wentong Zhang1
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215228, China.
Summary
This study used genetic data to link brain structure to insomnia risk. Larger left supramarginal gyrus area increased insomnia risk, while specific white matter traits in the thalamic radiation and corona radiata protected against it.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Genetics
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Insomnia is linked to brain alterations, but causal links are unclear.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of insomnia is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal relationships between brain imaging-derived phenotypes (IDPs) and insomnia.
- To identify specific brain structural and white matter traits associated with insomnia risk.
Main Methods:
- Utilized genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data for 3,935 multimodal IDPs and 283,595 individuals with insomnia data.
- Employed univariate and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to assess causal effects.
Main Results:
- Increased genetically predicted surface area of the left supramarginal gyrus was a risk factor for insomnia.
- Higher genetically predicted mode of anisotropy in the left superior thalamic radiation (STR) and pontine crossing tract (PCT) were protective.
- Increased radial diffusivity in the right superior corona radiata (SCR) was also a protective factor against insomnia.
Conclusions:
- Provides causal neuroimaging evidence for the involvement of specific brain regions (supramarginal gyrus, STR, PCT, SCR) in insomnia.
- Suggests that these identified brain structures may be potential therapeutic targets for insomnia treatment.
Keywords:
Cortical structureImaging-Derived phenotypesInsomniaMendelian randomizationWhite matter microstructureMore Related Videos
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