Identification and validation of key genes related to apoptosis in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome
Jian Zhang1,2, Zhi-Ying Wen2, Yan-Xiao Li2
1Cardiac Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China.
Background:
Apoptosis occupies a core position in the pathogenesis of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Therefore, exploring key mechanisms of action of apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in MODS will play a positive and promoting role in the diagnosis and treatment of MODS.
Methods:
We obtained MODS-related data from public databases, and analyzed the disparately expressed genes between MODS and controls, as well as the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) genes most related to MODS. The intersection with ARGs was then used to obtain candidate genes. After that, by combining Cytoscape software, machine learning algorithms with expression verification, key genes were obtained, and a nomogram model was constructed and evaluated. Next, centering on key genes, gene set enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis, small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) analysis, regulatory network construction, and drug prediction were carried out. At last, the expression of key genes in clinical samples was validated.
Results:
After screening, S100A9, S100A8, and BCL2A1 were identified as the key genes of MODS. They were all significantly highly expressed in MODS and jointly participated in "oxidative phosphorylation" signaling pathway. The nomogram constructed based on the key genes had excellent predictive ability. There were 15 types of differentially infiltrated immune cells between MODS and controls, and they were correlated with the key genes. In addition, each of the key genes had two or more SUMOylation sites, and multiple miRNAs (hsa-let-7d-5p) and lncRNAs (XIST) were predicted. Subsequently, the key genes also jointly predicted potential drugs (curcumin). Finally, in clinical samples of MODS, the key genes also showed high expression.
Conclusion:
S100A9, S100A8, and BCL2A1 were the key genes of MODS in terms of apoptosis. The constructed nomogram had an excellent predictive value. It offers a novel approach and potential targeted therapy for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of MODS.
Insights
Apoptosis-related genes S100A9, S100A8, and BCL2A1 are key to Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS). A nomogram model using these genes shows excellent predictive ability for MODS diagnosis and potential targeted therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Genomics
- Systems biology
Background:
- Apoptosis plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS).
- Identifying key apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in MODS is crucial for improving diagnosis and treatment.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of ARGs in MODS is essential for therapeutic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) implicated in the pathogenesis of Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS).
- To construct a predictive nomogram model based on identified key genes for MODS.
- To explore the potential therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms associated with these key genes in MODS.
Main Methods:
- Utilized public databases for MODS-related data analysis, including differential gene expression and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA).
- Integrated bioinformatics tools like Cytoscape and machine learning algorithms to identify key genes and validate their expression.
- Performed functional enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis, SUMOylation analysis, and drug prediction for the identified key genes.
Main Results:
- S100A9, S100A8, and BCL2A1 were identified as key ARGs in MODS, exhibiting significant overexpression.
- These genes are involved in the "oxidative phosphorylation" pathway and correlate with differential immune cell infiltration in MODS.
- A nomogram model based on these key genes demonstrated excellent predictive performance for MODS, with validated high expression in clinical samples.
Conclusions:
- S100A9, S100A8, and BCL2A1 are identified as pivotal apoptosis-related genes in MODS.
- The developed nomogram model offers significant predictive value for MODS diagnosis.
- These findings present a novel approach and potential targeted therapeutic strategies for MODS clinical management.
Related Concept Videos
Apoptosis
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Caspases
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway


