Plasma metabolites mediate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and erectile dysfunction: insights from Mendelian randomization study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

While the relationship between gut microbiota and erectile dysfunction (ED) has been reported, the specific pathways involved remain unclear.

Aim

This study aims to investigate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and ED, and to identify the potential role of plasma metabolites as mediators.

Methods

Utilizing aggregated genome-wide association study (GWAS) data, a comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed involving 196 gut microbiota taxa, 1400 plasma metabolites and ED. Causal relationships between gut microbiota, plasma metabolites and ED were explored. In addition, mediation analysis was applied to identify the pathway from gut microbiota to ED mediated by plasma metabolites.

Outcomes

This study reveals

SUBMITTER: Wang W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12481684 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature