Unraveling the Causal Nexus: Exploring the Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Aortic Dissection

Abstract

Background: Aortic dissection(AD) is a severe cardiovascular disorder, and its underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain subject to debate. Numerous studies have corroborated the significant impact of gut microbiota on cardiovascular diseases. However, the causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD remains unclear. Methods: In this study, we leveraged summary data from gut microbiota and AD genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design to elucidate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were conducted using Cochran's Q test, leave-one-out analysis, and MR-Egger intercept test. Results: MR analysis genetically predicted Lachnospiraceae ND3007 group was associated with an increased risk of AD (OR (95%CI): 2.104(1.629 ~ 2.178), adjusted P value: <0.001). Moreover, we identified 11 gut microbial taxa, including Blautia and Collinsella, that exhibited potential causal relationships with AD. Conclusion: The present study establishes a causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD, thereby offering novel avenues for research into the pathogenesis and prevention of AD.