Chemotherapy: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Deciphering Molecular Underpinnings and Therapeutic Avenues for Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis through Integrated Omics and Immunohistochemical Analysis

Fang Yang*, Cong Lin and Youcai Yan

Objective: This study aims to comprehensively explore the comorbidity mechanisms of eczema and Atopic Dermatitis (AD) through the integrated application of Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), machine learning, and bioinformatics methods. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets and provide a profound understanding of these two skin conditions.

Methods: We conducted Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and Differential Gene Expression (DEGs) analysis using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases GSE6012, GSE14550, GSE32924, and GSE120721. By intersecting the results, we identified 22 genes that are commonly expressed in eczema and atopic dermatitis. Functional enrichment analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), disease prediction, and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI), were performed on these genes. Subsequently, key hub genes— CCL18, GZMB, and IRF7—were selected using random forest in machine learning and the cytohubba function in Cytoscape. We further explored the relationships between these three genes and immune cells through CIBERSORT and Single-Sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA), establishing a mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA ceRNA regulatory network.

Results: Enrichment analysis revealed that these 22 genes are predominantly involved in processes such as cytokine- mediated signaling pathways, leukocyte migration, leukocyte chemotaxis, neutrophil chemotaxis, and humoral immune responses. Additionally, they are associated with various skin-related diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Machine learning and network analysis confirmed CCL18, GZMB, and IRF7 as key genes. Immunoinfiltration analysis further elucidated the associations of these genes with different immune cells.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that CCL18, GZMB, and IRF7 may serve as potential biomarkers for eczema and atopic dermatitis, holding significant clinical prospects. These genes play vital roles in various biological processes and immune regulation, providing robust support for unraveling the comorbidity mechanisms of these two skin conditions. This discovery offers essential clues for future exploration of therapeutic targets and clinical interventions, potentially advancing research in the treatment of eczema and atopic dermatitis.

Published Date: 2024-12-19; Received Date: 2024-11-18