Mendelian Randomization Analysis Uncovers the Causal Link Between Gut Microbiota and Cerebrovascular Diseases

ABSTRACT: The intestinal microbiome represents the most extensive microbial community within the human body, significantly influencing neurodevelopment, aging, maintenance of normal physiological functions, and brain disorders, including ischemic stroke. Emerging research indicates that the gut microbiome might affect cerebrovascular health via multiple mechanisms. However, since many of these studies are observational, establishing a direct causal link remains challenging. Mendelian randomization, leveraging genetic variations, provides a novel approach to evaluate causality. We reviewed recent studies employing Mendelian randomization to investigate the potential causal associations between the gut microbiome and cerebrovascular diseases. Our analysis synthesizes findings from Mendelian randomization studies that connect specific gut microbial compositions with cerebrovascular conditions such as stroke and its subtypes, aneurysms, atherosclerosis, and cerebral small vessel disease. This aims to offer a more definitive framework for understanding the causal relationship between the gut microbiome and cerebrovascular health.