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Author Spotlight: Evaluating Traditional Chinese Therapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis in Mice
Published on: October 27, 2023
Association between ankylosing spondylitis and m6A methylation
Zhiwei Luan1,2, Yansong Wang3,4
1Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
Background:
N6-methyl adenosine (m6A) is the most common reversible mRNA modification in eukaryotes implicated in key roles in various biological processes. The purpose of our analysis was to examine the association of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) with m6A methylation.
Method:
We obtained 72 samples from the data set GSE73754, including 52 AS patients and 20 healthy people. We divided the samples into two groups: the experimental group and the control group, and then observed the differences of 26 m6A related genes in the two groups. We also analyzed the correlation between different m6A genes. We used a random forest tree model to screen seven m6A signature genes associated with AS to evaluate its prevalence. Next, the samples were classified according to the m6a content and differential genes. Immune analysis, gene ontology, and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed. Finally, we scored each sample with m6a and analyzed the relationship between different samples and inflammation-related factors.
Results And Conclusion:
In conclusion, we screened out AS-related genes and the nomogram showed that they were negatively correlated with the incidence of AS. And we found that AS may have some relationship with immunity. Our analysis results could provide further insights into the treatment of AS.
Insights
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is linked to N6-methyl adenosine (m6A) methylation. Key m6A genes negatively correlate with AS incidence, suggesting a role for m6A in AS immunity and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- N6-methyl adenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent reversible mRNA modification in eukaryotes.
- m6A modification plays crucial roles in diverse biological processes.
- The association between m6A methylation and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between m6A methylation and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
- To identify m6A-related genes associated with AS.
- To explore the potential role of m6A in AS pathogenesis and immunity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 72 samples (52 AS patients, 20 healthy controls) from dataset GSE73754.
- Screening of 26 m6A-related genes and identification of seven AS-associated signature genes using a random forest model.
- Immune analysis, gene ontology, and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed.
Main Results:
- Seven m6A signature genes associated with AS were identified.
- The nomogram indicated a negative correlation between these AS-related genes and AS incidence.
- AS showed potential associations with immune system regulation.
Conclusions:
- The study identified AS-related genes linked to m6A methylation.
- Findings suggest a negative correlation between specific m6A genes and AS development.
- The results provide insights into the potential involvement of m6A and immunity in AS, offering avenues for future treatment strategies.
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