Genetic Influence of the Brain on Muscle Structure
Author Information
Author(s): Lei Ting, Jiang Zichao, Wang Jiahao, Nan Jiangyu, Hua Long, Zhu Zewu, Hu Yihe
Primary Institution: The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine Zhejiang University
Hypothesis
Is there a causal association between brain structure, function, gene expression, and sarcopenia-related traits?
Conclusion
The study found a causal effect of brain imaging data and gene expression on sarcopenia, suggesting an immune-based cross-organ regulation mechanism between the brain and muscle.
Supporting Evidence
- 141 brain imaging phenotypes causally influenced appendicular lean mass.
- 160 brain imaging phenotypes showed significant causal effects on whole body lean mass.
- 86 brain imaging phenotypes showed significant causal effects on grip strength.
- 48 brain imaging phenotypes were causally associated with sarcopenia diagnosed by EWGSOP criteria.
- 35 brain imaging phenotypes showed causal effects on appendicular lean mass after FDR correction.
Takeaway
The brain can affect muscle health, and understanding this connection might help us find new ways to treat muscle loss as we age.
Methodology
The study used Mendelian randomization analysis with GWAS data from the UK Biobank and gene expression data from the GTEx Consortium.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the genetic associations and the specific population studied.
Limitations
The study's population was limited to Europeans, which may restrict the applicability of the findings to other populations.
Participant Demographics
All participants were Europeans.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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