The causality between dietary intake and allergic diseases: A two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

Area of Science:

• Immunology and Nutrition
• Genetic Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic diseases are prevalent chronic inflammatory conditions with complex manifestations.
• Diet significantly influences immune system regulation and atopic constitution.
• Effective management necessitates comprehensive, long-term strategies, including dietary interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal relationships between 22 dietary factors and allergic diseases using Mendelian randomization.
• To identify specific dietary components that may prevent or mitigate allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis.

Main Methods:

• Two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.
• Utilized genetic variants as instrumental variables for robust causal inference.
• Employed weighted median, MR-Egger regression, and inverse-variance weighted methods.
• Conducted sensitivity analyses, heterogeneity tests, and pleiotropy assessments for result validation.

Main Results:

• Identified 7 dietary factors associated with allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis.
• Oily fish, dried fruit, and cereal intake showed a protective effect against asthma.
• Fresh fruit, tea, cereal, and reduced processed meat intake were linked to protection against atopic dermatitis.

Conclusions:

• Diet plays a critical role in the prevention and management of allergic diseases.
• Specific dietary factors demonstrate potential protective effects against common allergic conditions.
• Nutritional interventions represent a promising avenue for future allergic disease control and treatment.