Identification and validation of key non-coding RNAs and mRNAs using co-expression network analysis in pre-eclampsia

Area of Science:

• Genomics and Molecular Biology
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a major pregnancy complication with severe maternal and fetal health consequences.
• Understanding the molecular underpinnings of PE is crucial for improving diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in pre-eclampsia.
• To explore the potential mechanisms and co-expression networks of these lncRNAs in PE pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the GSE60438 dataset containing pre-eclampsia and normal pregnancy samples.
• Applied bioinformatics tools including limma, DAVID, GSEA, and WGCNA for data analysis.
• Constructed a lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network and a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network.

Main Results:

• Identified 53 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and 301 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs).
• Discovered enriched pathways including protein digestion and absorption, and osteoclast differentiation.
• Validated five lncRNAs (ANXA2P1, GTF2IP1, NACAP1, NCF1C, OR7E37P) in clinical specimens, highlighting their potential role in PE.

Conclusions:

• Specific DElncRNAs, notably ANXA2P1, GTF2IP1, NACAP1, NCF1C, and OR7E37P, are implicated in pre-eclampsia.
• These lncRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers for PE prediction and diagnosis.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of these lncRNAs in PE.