A mouse model of allergic conjunctivitis with mucosal immune-related gene and circRNA dysregulation

Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is an inflammatory ocular condition triggered by allergens like pollen. Although general allergic mechanisms are well characterized, the immune specificity of the ocular mucosa remains unclear. This study investigates immune-related mRNAs and circRNAs to uncover novel molecular pathways in AC pathogenesis. Using a ragweed pollen-induced murine AC model, conjunctival tissues were subjected to RNA sequencing. DESeq2-based differential expression analysis revealed dysregulated mRNAs and circRNAs, with significant enrichment in the IL-17 signaling pathway. Key IL-17-associated genes (Tnfrsf4, Cxcl1, Lef1) and co-expressed circRNAs (Circ9626, Circ2598, etc.) were markedly upregulated. Immune infiltration analysis confirmed a mixed Th2/Th17 response with notable neutrophil involvement. These findings highlight the potential involvement of the Th17/IL-17 axis beyond classical Th2 immunity and construct a putative circRNA-IL-17 co-expression network, providing a comprehensive transcriptomic landscape and identifying potential candidates for future therapeutic exploration in AC.