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The ceRNA Regulatory Network in Vitiligo: Evidence from Bioinformatics Analysis

Hedan Yang1, Xiuzhen Li2, Xiaoli Zhang1

  • 1Department of Cosmetic Laser Surgery, Hospital of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, People's Republic of China.

Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology
|September 5, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study maps the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in vitiligo, identifying seven circulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as potential diagnostic markers for this depigmentation disorder.

Area of Science:

  • Genomics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Vitiligo is a depigmentation disorder caused by melanocyte loss.
  • The global architecture of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) interactions in vitiligo is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA ceRNA network in vitiligo.
  • To identify blood-borne RNA markers for vitiligo diagnosis.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of miRNA, mRNA, and lncRNA expression data from vitiligo patients and controls.
  • Construction of a ceRNA network using bioinformatics tools and validation of candidate lncRNAs via RT-qPCR.
  • Identification of differentially expressed genes and pathways related to vitiligo pathogenesis.

Main Results:

  • A comprehensive ceRNA network involving 33 lncRNAs, 12 miRNAs, and 58 mRNAs was constructed.
  • Key pathways including melanogenesis, oxidative stress, and immune signaling were implicated.
  • Seven circulating lncRNAs (CASC19, NUCB1-AS1, LINC01485, VAV3-AS1, SPATA13-AS1, ZNF350-AS1, LINC00677) were identified as potential diagnostic markers.

Conclusions:

  • The study reveals a novel ceRNA landscape associated with vitiligo.
  • Identified circulating lncRNAs offer promising diagnostic potential for vitiligo.
  • Findings lay the groundwork for understanding non-coding RNA roles and developing targeted vitiligo therapies.
Keywords:
bioinformaticsceRNAlncRNAvitiligo

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