Causal relationship between serum creatinine levels and bone mineral density: A Mendelian randomization study

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Metabolism
• Bone Health

Background:

• Serum creatinine (Scr) is a marker for skeletal muscle mass.
• Low Scr levels may indicate sarcopenia, impacting skeletal health.
• The relationship between Scr and bone mineral density (BMD) requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal relationship between serum creatinine (Scr) levels and bone mineral density (BMD).
• To determine if Scr is a risk factor or protective factor for BMD across different age groups.

Main Methods:

• Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using genome-wide association study data.
• Utilized multiple MR methods including inverse-variance weighting, MR-Egger, and weighted median estimation.
• Performed sensitivity analyses to ensure the robustness of the results.

Main Results:

• Serum creatinine levels showed a protective effect on BMD in individuals aged 45-60 (P=.005, OR=1.176).
• Sensitivity analyses confirmed the stability and reliability of the MR findings.
• No significant association between Scr and BMD was observed in other age groups.

Conclusions:

• Serum creatinine levels have a causal relationship with BMD.
• Elevated Scr may be protective for BMD in middle-aged adults.
• Monitoring Scr levels can help identify individuals at risk for low BMD and skeletal issues.