Key points from article :
Researchers examined the direct and causal relationship between gut microbiota and metabolic markers such as weight, eight chronic diseases and human longevity.
To establish a causal link, Mendelian randomization uses genetic variants that are strongly associated with gut microbiota.
We included genetic data from tens of thousands of individuals from several cohorts.
Analysis did not show significant effects of gut microbiota on metabolic factors and chronic diseases.
Seven associations appear to be potentially causal, but minimal.
Gut microbiota has a significant effect on our weight, metabolism and risk of developing chronic diseases.
Associations could be due to the diseases or by confounding factors such as diet, medication, smoking, metabolic health, or others.
It is entirely possible that the genetic parameters we used do not fully capture the complexity of the gut microbiota.
Studies with larger sample sizes and better characterization of the gut microbiota and its metabolites will be needed.
Results support that the potential of the microbiota as a therapeutic target for chronic diseases is, at present, low.
Health professionals and the general public to be cautious about diagnostic tests based on gut microbiota to diagnose health problems.
Study led by Benoit Arsenault from Laval University, published in Journal of Translational Medicine.
