Gut Microbiota and Its Association with Alopecia Areata: Insights from a Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study

July 2023 in “ Research Square (Research Square) ”

Wen Xu, Li Zhang, Xiuzu Song

alopecia areata gut microbiota Butyricimonas Enterorhabdus Eubacterium Phascolarctobacterium Ruminococcaceae UCG003 GWAS pathogenesis treatment AA gut bacteria

Studysummary This study offers evidence suggesting a probable causal role of certain gut microbiota in the development of alopecia areata.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This study investigates the causal relationship between gut microbiota and alopecia areata (AA) using data from GWAS involving 13,266 individuals for gut microbiota and 211,428 for AA. The analysis suggests that certain gut bacteria, such as Butyricimonas, Enterorhabdus, Eubacterium (xylanophilum group), and Phascolarctobacterium, may have a protective effect against AA, while Ruminococcaceae UCG003 may increase the risk. Reverse analysis showed no significant causal effect of AA on gut microbiota. The findings highlight the potential role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis and treatment of AA.

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