Long non-coding RNAs BACE1-AS and BC200 in multiple sclerosis and their relation to cognitive function: A gene...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Cognitive impairment is a significant challenge in multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Synaptic plasticity dysregulation is a key factor in MS-related cognitive decline.
• The role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in MS cognitive impairment remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the expression of lncRNAs BACE1-AS and BC200 in MS patients with and without cognitive impairment.
• To explore the correlation between these lncRNAs and cognitive status in MS.
• To assess the diagnostic potential of these lncRNAs and a combined model for MS prediction.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure serum lncRNA expression.
• Two cohorts of MS patients, categorized by cognitive impairment status, were analyzed.
• A predictive model, Neuro_Lnc-2, was developed and evaluated.

Main Results:

• Both BACE1-AS and BC200 were overexpressed in MS patients, with higher levels in those with cognitive impairment.
• A positive correlation was observed between BACE1-AS and BC200 expression.
• BACE1-AS levels were higher in remitting MS cases, particularly in cognitively impaired SPMS patients.
• BC200 showed highest expression in the primary progressive MS (PPMS) group.
• The Neuro_Lnc-2 model demonstrated superior diagnostic performance compared to individual lncRNAs.

Conclusions:

• BACE1-AS and BC200 may play a role in the pathogenesis of progressive MS and cognitive dysfunction.
• These lncRNAs show promise as potential biomarkers for MS cognitive impairment.
• Further research is needed to validate these findings and elucidate their precise mechanisms.