Identification of a circRNA-mediated comprehensive ceRNA network in spinal cord injury pathogenesis

Experimental Biology and Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1177/15353702221082929 · Published: June 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Genetics Bioinformatics

Simple Explanation

This study explores the competing endogenous (ceRNA) mechanisms associated with SCI using bioinformatics analysis of microarray data. The research demonstrates that hsa_circ_0026646 upregulates PLXNB2 expression by adsorbing miR-331-3p, suggesting a potential therapeutic target. The findings, validated in a rat SCI model, offer new insights into SCI regulatory mechanisms.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Female Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats (age, 10–12 weeks; weight, 200–250 g)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Hsa_circ_0026646 was identified as a core circRNA upregulated in SCI, potentially acting as a 'molecular sponge' for miR-331-3p.
2
PLXNB2, an immune-related gene, was identified as a key gene upregulated after SCI, participating in NF-κB and HIF-1α signaling pathways.
3
MiR-331-3p expression was found to be downregulated in SCI, suggesting its involvement in the neuroprotective effect mediated by hsa_circ_0026646.

Research Summary

The study identifies differentially expressed immune-related genes (DEIRGs) and their ceRNA mechanisms in spinal cord injury (SCI) pathogenesis using microarray datasets and a rat SCI model. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a circRNA/miRNA/mRNA regulatory network, with hsa_circ_0026646 upregulating PLXNB2 expression by adsorbing miR-331-3p. The findings provide new evidence for SCI regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets, validated through rat SCI model and dual-luciferase reporter system.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target Identification

Hsa_circ_0026646 could be a potential therapeutic target for SCI management.

Understanding SCI Pathogenesis

The identified hsa_circ_0026646/miR-331-3p/PLXNB2 network offers new insights into the regulatory mechanisms associated with SCI.

Future Research

Further exploration of the neuroprotective and axon regeneration effects of hsa_circ_0026646 is warranted to confirm its potential therapeutic effect.

Study Limitations

1
The specific mechanism of PLXNB2 in SCI needs further confirmation.
2
The role of miR-331-3p in the nervous system still needs to be further investigated.
3
Studies focusing on the effects of circRNAs on SCI are limited.

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