Combining single cell and bulk transcriptomics with Mendelian randomization identifies gut microbiota related prognostic genes and mechanisms in thyroid cancer

Abstract Background: Imbalance in gut microbiota (GM) may play a role in the development of thyroid cancer (TC), but the specific mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to identify prognostic genes associated with both TC and GM and investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: Public datasets were leveraged to perform differential expression, Mendelian randomization (MR), and machine learning analyses to pinpoint prognostic genes. A nomogram model was developed for survival prediction. Functional roles of candidate genes were explored through gene