Genetic Associations Between Autoimmune Diseases and Anemia: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis to Inform Clinical Practice.

Abstract

Background: Autoimmune diseases and anemia are clinically distinct yet recent studies suggest a potential association. The causal link is unclear, prompting this study's utilization of univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization analyses to probe a possible causal connection. Method: A thorough literature review and analysis of summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data, sourced from public databases, were conducted. Ten autoimmune diseases and anemia were selected for scrutiny. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly associated with these diseases were identified, serving as instrumental variables with anemia as the outcome variable. Both univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization analyses were performed to assess the causal link. Results: Ten autoimmune diseases were analyzed concerning their relationship with anemia. Univariate analysis revealed that Type 1 Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis genetically contribute to anemia risk. Multivariate analysis sustained a significant association between the genetic predisposition toward Type 1 Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis and anemia risk. Conclusion: This study supports the notion that autoimmune diseases negatively influence anemia risk, suggesting that targeting autoimmune diseases may be key to mitigating anemia risk. The relationship between autoimmune diseases and anemia warrants further investigation for potential preventive and treatment strategies.