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Expression profile of circular RNAs in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with retinopathy

Wencheng An1, Bingyan Wang2, Fang Chen1

  • 1Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Haidian Hospital, Beijing Haidian Section of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.

Journal of Diabetes Investigation
|January 28, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study identified differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Hsa_circRNA_407262 may be a key regulator and potential biomarker for early DR diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Genetics
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of vision loss in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
  • Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical players in DR pathogenesis.
  • Understanding circRNA expression is vital for DR research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate differential circRNA expression profiles in T2DM patients with and without DR.
  • To explore the functional roles of circRNAs in DR development.
  • To identify potential circRNA biomarkers for DR diagnosis.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples from 40 T2DM patients (20 DR, 20 non-DR) were analyzed using circRNA microarrays.
  • Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) validated key circRNAs.
  • Bioinformatic analyses, including pathway enrichment and network construction, were performed.

Main Results:

  • 376 circRNAs were differentially expressed (169 upregulated, 207 downregulated).
  • Five downregulated and three upregulated circRNAs were validated.
  • Hsa_circRNA_407262 was identified as a potential miRNA sponge regulating key signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

  • This study identified specific circRNAs associated with DR.
  • Hsa_circRNA_407262 shows promise as a crucial regulator in DR pathology.
  • Hsa_circRNA_407262 may serve as a valuable biomarker for early DR detection.
Keywords:
BiomarkerCircular RNAsDiabetic retinopathy

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