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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
Genome-wide RNAi Screening to Identify Host Factors That Modulate Oncolytic Virus Therapy
Published on: April 3, 2018
Identifying potential novel insights for COVID-19 pathogenesis and therapeutics using an integrated bioinformatics
Salem A El-Aarag1, Amal Mahmoud2, Mahmoud ElHefnawi3
1Bioinformatics Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), University of Sadat City, Egypt.
Abstract:
The molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of COVID-19 have not been fully discovered. This study aims to decipher potentially hidden parts of the pathogenesis of COVID-19, potential novel drug targets, and identify potential drug candidates. Two gene expression profiles were analyzed, and overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected for which top enriched transcription factors and kinases were identified, and pathway analysis was performed. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) of DEGs was constructed, hub genes were identified, and module analysis was also performed. DGIdb database was used to identify drugs for the potential targets (hub genes and the most enriched transcription factors and kinases for DEGs). A drug-potential target network was constructed, and drugs were ranked according to the degree. L1000FDW was used to identify drugs that can reverse transcriptional profiles of COVID-19. We identified drugs currently in clinical trials, others predicted by different methods, and novel potential drug candidates Entrectinib, Omeprazole, and Exemestane for combating COVID-19. Besides the well-known pathogenic pathways, it was found that axon guidance is a potential pathogenic pathway. Sema7A, which may exacerbate hypercytokinemia, is considered a potential novel drug target. Another potential novel pathway is related to TINF2 overexpression, which may induce potential telomere dysfunction and damage DNA that may exacerbate lung fibrosis. This study identified new potential insights regarding COVID-19 pathogenesis and treatment, which might help us improve our understanding of the mechanisms of COVID-19.
Insights
This study reveals new insights into COVID-19 pathogenesis, identifying novel drug targets like Sema7A and pathways such as axon guidance. Potential drug candidates, including Entrectinib, Omeprazole, and Exemestane, were discovered for COVID-19 treatment.
Area of Science:
- * Molecular biology
- * Bioinformatics
- * Pharmacology
Background:
- * The precise molecular mechanisms driving COVID-19 pathogenesis remain incompletely understood.
- * Identifying novel therapeutic targets and drug candidates is crucial for effective COVID-19 treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To elucidate hidden aspects of COVID-19 pathogenesis.
- * To identify novel drug targets and potential drug candidates for COVID-19.
- * To explore new therapeutic strategies for combating the virus.
Main Methods:
- * Analysis of two gene expression profiles to identify overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs).
- * Construction of Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks and identification of hub genes.
- * Utilization of DGIdb and L1000FDW databases for drug target identification and transcriptional profile reversal.
Main Results:
- * Identified Entrectinib, Omeprazole, and Exemestane as potential drug candidates.
- * Revealed axon guidance as a potential pathogenic pathway, with Sema7A as a novel drug target.
- * Highlighted TINF2 overexpression as a potential pathway linked to DNA damage and lung fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- * This research provides novel insights into COVID-19 pathogenesis, suggesting new therapeutic avenues.
- * Identified potential drug candidates and targets that warrant further investigation for COVID-19 treatment.
- * Understanding these mechanisms can improve the management and treatment strategies for COVID-19.
