Bioinformatics Analysis Identifies Potential Ferroptosis Key Genes in the Pathogenesis of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Abstract

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a disabling chronic inflammatory disease. The mechanisms of ferroptosis in AS remain unclear. Method: Using bioinformatics analysis, we aimed to identify key molecules involved in ferroptosis and provide potential therapeutic targets for AS, further exploring the mechanisms of ferroptosis in AS. GSE25101 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset and intersected with ferroptosis genes. Result: A total of 20 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened, most of which were involved in PI3K-Akt, MAPK signalling pathway and endoplasmic reticulum stress response. The following target genes were identified through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and screening of key modules constructed from genes associated with the PI3K-Akt and MAPK signalling pathway: TP53, PTEN, TLR4, HSPB1, DDIT3, XBP1. In addition, PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling were both associated with oxidative stress, both of them may play a role in AS pathological ossification related to ferroptosis. We identified only has-miR-205-5p targeting at least two genes. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that the TP53- and PTEN-related mRNA–miRNA interaction chain could be potentially employed as a biomarker of the inception and progression of ferroptosis in AS.