Key Targets in Subacute Spinal Cord Injury Identified by Bioinformatics and Mendelian Randomization

Area of Science:

• Bioinformatics
• Genomics
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Subacute spinal cord injury (SCI) presents complex challenges for effective treatment.
• Identifying reliable biomarkers and therapeutic targets is crucial for advancing precision medicine in SCI recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To uncover pivotal diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for subacute spinal cord injury (SCI) using integrative bioinformatics and Mendelian randomization (MR).
• To offer actionable insights for developing precision therapeutics for SCI.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of transcriptomic data from rat, mouse, and human SCI models.
• Identification of differentially expressed genes, hub genes, and key biological pathways.
• Cross-species validation, receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, drug prediction, and multivariable MR.

Main Results:

• Identified 640 differentially expressed genes and nine hub genes, with five showing cross-species diagnostic potential.
• Highlighted pathways like NF-κB signaling and ECM-receptor interactions in SCI.
• Identified genistein, isoflavone, and DMSO as potential therapeutic candidates and ICAM1 as a protective factor.

Conclusions:

• This research identifies critical molecular targets, pathways, and drugs for enhancing SCI recovery.
• Provides a foundational framework for the development of targeted, precision therapeutics for spinal cord injury.