Identiﬁcation of novel gene signatures and immune cell inﬁltration in intervertebral disc degeneration using bioinformatics analysis

Front. Mol. Biosci., 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1169718 · Published: July 14, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study uses bioinformatics to find genes and immune cells linked to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). IDD is a major cause of lower back pain. The researchers analyzed data from public databases to identify genes and pathways involved in IDD. They looked at mRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA. They also examined how immune cells infiltrate the disc and interact with these genes. The goal is to find potential drug targets for treating IDD.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

24 cases of IDD tissues and 12 cases of normal disc tissues

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Identified 346 differentially expressed mRNAs, 12 differentially expressed miRNAs, 883 differentially expressed lncRNAs, and 916 differentially expressed circRNAs in the GEO database.
2
Hub genes are associated with platelet activation, immune responses, focal adhesion, and PI3K-Akt signalling.
3
Treg cells had significant infiltration, and dendritic cells, Th2 cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were inhibited in IDD.

Research Summary

The study explores gene signatures and immune cell infiltration related to IDD using bioinformatics analysis. Key findings include the identification of differentially expressed mRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, along with hub genes associated with various biological processes and signaling pathways. Immune infiltration analysis revealed significant infiltration of Treg cells and inhibition of other immune cells in IDD, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.

Practical Implications

Drug target identification

The study identified potential drug targets such as PDGFRA and drugs like collagenase clostridium histolyticum and ocriplasmin for IDD treatment.

Diagnostic biomarkers

Identified hub genes such as ACTG1, CALM3, CLU, COL1A1, and COL1A2 as potential diagnostic markers for IDD.

Understanding IDD pathogenesis

The research provides insights into the molecular mechanisms and immune responses involved in IDD, aiding in the development of targeted therapies.

Study Limitations

1
Limited sample size in public datasets.
2
Further experiments are needed to verify the role of biomarkers.
3
Several factors, including sex, age, and the underlying condition of IDD, were not taken into account.

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