Summary
This study employed Mendelian randomisation on genome-wide association study data to distinguish causal relationships from genetic correlation between serum biochemical traits and psychiatric disorders. The authors identified strong evidence that C-reactive protein causally influences psychiatric illness, with bidirectional effects across different disorders. Multivariable conditioning suggested the CRP-schizophrenia relationship operates independently of interleukin-6 signaling and body mass index, suggesting distinct shared biological pathways.
UK applicability
The findings are relevant to UK clinical and psychiatric practice, as they identify potential blood-based biomarkers and inflammatory pathways amenable to intervention. However, application would require validation in UK population cohorts and translation into clinical screening or therapeutic strategies.
Key measures
Genetic correlation coefficients between biochemical traits and psychiatric disorders; Mendelian randomisation estimates of causal effects; multivariable conditional analyses adjusting for interleukin-6 signaling and body mass index
Outcomes reported
The study identified widespread genetic correlation between serum biochemical traits and psychiatric disorders, and established causal inference evidence that C-reactive protein (CRP) exerts causal effects on psychiatric illness. CRP demonstrated both protective and risk-increasing effects depending on the specific disorder.
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