Exploration of autophagy-related molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy using multiple datasets

ObjectiveTo elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy, we investigated autophagy-related differentially expressed genes in epilepsy patients.MethodsWe analyzed GSE143272 and GSE4290 microarray datasets from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus database, which is established based on evaluations of peripheral blood samples. Using a bioinformatics approach, autophagy-related differentially expressed genes between epilepsy patients and healthy controls were identified. Further analyses including Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression, immune cell infiltration, and pathway enrichment were conducted. Experimental validation was performed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in a mouse epileptic model. Additionally, the Connectivity Map database was employed to predict potential drugs.ResultsIn total, 49 autophagy-related differentially expressed genes were identified. A Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator logistic model revealed four autophagy-related differentially expressed genes, namely, CAPN2, ERN1, RELA, and SAR1A. Furthermore, a novel diagnostic model with robust validation metrics was established. Immune cell infiltration analysis underscored the significance of immune response in epilepsy, revealing distinct profiles in patients. Additionally, pathway enrichment analysis using gene set enrichment analysis and gene set variation analysis revealed that critical genes were implicated in diverse pathways, including metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. The expression levels of these key genes were experimentally corroborated using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in the hippocampus tissues of status epileptic mice. Finally, Connectivity Map analysis suggested three antiseizure drugs (cabergoline, capsazepine, and zolantidine).ConclusionsOur results provide insights into potential biomarker candidates, thus contributing to clinical diagnosis and the development of new antiseizure drugs.