Identification of a functional miRNA–mRNA regulatory network in recurrent miscarriage: bioinformatics analysis of human chorionic villi

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 M.Sc. Student, Department of Genetics, School of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Genetics, School of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.

10.22038/ijogi.2025.82344.6191

Abstract

Introduction: Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a reproductive disorder that makes an unresolved issue in women. miRNAs may play a role in regulating embryonic growth and sustaining pregnancy. The present study was conducted with aim to investigate the miRNA profile in the chorionic villi of women with recurrent abortion using bioinformatics studies.
Methods: In this study, the expression profiles of mRNA and miRNA from chorionic villi cells were obtained from the GEO database. After identifying the differentially expressed miRNAs, the overlap between miRNA targets and the upregulated/downregulated mRNAs was determined. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and KEGG pathways were then conducted for the overlapped genes. Protein-protein interaction networks and key genes were analyzed. Finally, the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was constructed.
Results: A total of 123 miRNAs with differential expression (16 downregulated and 107 upregulated) and 670 genes with differential expression (including 269 downregulated and 366 upregulated) were analyzed. After making the overlap between the miRNA targets and differentially expressed genes, 219 overlap genes were identified. The results of KEGG and GO analysis indicated that these genes are involved in prolactin, oxytocin, B cell receptor pathways, interleukin-6 production processes, and leukocyte differentiation. Additionally, in the miRNA-mRNA network, miR-548ap-5p and miR-320b were identified with the highest scores.
Conclusion: The present study identified differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs, as well as key genes in the chorionic villi cells associated with RSA. This study may suggest new biomarkers for the potential diagnosis or treatment of RSA.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility
Volume 27, Issue 10
December 2024
Pages 63-76

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