Serum trace elements and osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis and Mendelian randomization study

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to establish the correlation between shifts in serum trace element (TE) levels and the progression of osteoarthritis (OA), while also exploring the underlying causal relationship between these variables.

Methods

An investigation was conducted, which included a systematic review, a meta-analysis of observational studies, and a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Results

This meta-analysis revealed significant differences in serum levels of copper, manganese, cadmium, and selenium between OA patients and healthy controls, after adjusting for heterogeneity. Specifically, significant disparities were observed for copper (SMD 0.118 [95 % CI: 0.061 ∼ 0.175], P < 0.001), manganese (SMD −0.180 [95 % CI: −0.326 ∼ −0.034], P = 0.016), cadmium (SMD 0.227 [95 % CI: 0.131 ∼ 0.322], P < 0.001), and selenium (SMD −0.138 [95 % CI: −0.209 ∼ −0.068], P < 0.001), while zinc levels did not show a significant difference (SMD −0.02 [95 % CI: −0.077 ∼ 0.038], P = 0.503). Further, MR analysis suggested a causal link between genetically predicted serum copper level changes and OA development, but not for other TEs.

Conclusion

The study suggests that there is an association between the occurrence of OA and variations in serum levels of copper, manganese, cadmium, and selenium. Elevated serum copper may play a pivotal role. Further research is needed to explore the therapeutic potential of TE level modulation in OA management.