Genomic Biomarkers Can Provide a Deeper Understanding of Recurrent Pressure Injuries

ADV SKIN WOUND CARE, 2023 · DOI: 10.1097/ASW.0000000000000041 · Published: October 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Bioinformatics Dermatology

Simple Explanation

This study explores why some individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) experience recurring pressure injuries (PIs) while others do not, despite similar lifestyles. Researchers examined the genetic profiles of veterans with SCI to identify biomarkers that may predispose individuals to recurrent PIs. The study found that certain genes related to fatty acid metabolism, biological senescence, and antimicrobial protection may play a role in the risk of recurrent PIs in individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

2 to 4 years

Participants

Veterans with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Whole genome sequencing identified 260 genes with increased single-nucleotide variations in exonic regions among individuals with high intramuscular adipose tissue levels and recurrent PIs.
2
RNA sequencing revealed upregulated activity in biological senescence pathways and downregulated activity in antimicrobial protection pathways in persons with recurrent PIs.
3
Upregulation of TAC3 in those without recurrent PIs, may serve as a protective factor by improving control of vascular perfusion compared with persons with SCI who experience recurrent PIs.

Research Summary

The study aimed to identify genetic biomarkers predisposing individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) to recurrent pressure injuries (PIs) through repeated measures of the transcriptome profile. Results indicated that genomic biomarkers, particularly those related to fatty acid metabolism, biological senescence, and antimicrobial protection, may be associated with recurrent PI risk in individuals with SCI. The findings suggest that genomic profiles may help explain why some individuals with SCI are more susceptible to recurrent PIs, potentially leading to more personalized and effective prevention strategies.

Practical Implications

Personalized Risk Assessment

Genomic biomarkers may enhance personalized risk assessments, enabling early interventions to minimize morbidity and healthcare costs for individuals with SCI.

Precision Drug Discovery

Study findings may facilitate precision drug discovery and development, potentially leading to novel pharmaceutical clinical trials targeting recurrent PIs.

Individualized Care Planning

The study's insights may impact individualized care planning within 5 years, promoting more tailored and effective prevention strategies based on genomic profiles.

Genomic Biomarkers Can Provide a Deeper Understanding of Recurrent Pressure Injuries

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Personalized Risk Assessment

Precision Drug Discovery

Individualized Care Planning

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Genomic Biomarkers Can Provide a Deeper Understanding of Recurrent Pressure Injuries

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Personalized Risk Assessment

Precision Drug Discovery

Individualized Care Planning

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?