Causal Associations of Circulating Metabolites and Immune Cells with Colorectal Cancer：A Bidirectional Two-sample Mendelian randomization study

Abstract Background Several recent studies have shown an association of circulating metabolites and immune cells with colorectal cancer. However, the causal relationship is unclear. (2) Methods: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization(MR) analysis was used in our study. (3) Results: MR analysis of 1091 blood metabolites, 309 metabolite ratios, 731 immune cells and CRC showed 58 blood metabolites, 11 metabolite ratios, and 38 immune cells phenotypes were significant associations with CRC, including 2 blood metabolites and 1 immune cell phenotype exhibiting bidirectional associations. (4) Conclusion: Our study identified circulating metabolites and immune cells associated with the onset of CRC and explored their bidirectional relationships. We provided new insights into early screening, therapeutic targets, and treatment strategies for CRC. However, further research is required to confirm these preliminary observations and to elucidate the intricate network of causality involved.