Two-sample Mendelian Randomization Study Dose Not Reveal Significant Relationship Between Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection and Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting ~2% children worldwide and characterized by repetitive, stereotypical behaviors and impaired expressive communication. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is considered a risk factor for ASD, however, published studies are usually limited by too few events and have different conclusions, indicating the relationship between CMV infection and ASD remains elusive. To investigate the association between CMV infection and ASD, we conducted this 2-sample mendelian randomization study using GWAS summary data from FinnGen and IEU Open GWAS project. Our results showed no significant relationship between all 3 CMV infections (unspecified cytomegaloviral diseases, anti-CMV IgG levels, and maternal CMV) and ASD.