Exploration of the Key Genes Involved in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Possible MicroRNA Therapeutic Targets

Abstract

BackgroundMicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising therapeutic agents for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed to identify key genes/proteins involved in NAFLD pathogenesis and progression and to evaluate miRNAs influencing their expression. MethodsGene expression profiles from datasets GSE151158, GSE163211, GSE135251, GSE167523, GSE46300 and online databases were analyzed to identify significant NAFLD-related genes. Then, protein-protein interaction networks and module analysis identified hub genes/proteins, which were validated using real-time PCR in oleic acid-treated HepG2 cells. Functional enrichment analysis evaluated signaling pathways and biological processes. Gene-miRNA interaction networks identified miRNAs targeting critical NAFLD genes. ResultsThe most critical overexpressed hub genes/proteins included: TNF, VEGFA, TLR4, CYP2E1, ACE, SCD, FASN, SREBF2 and TGFB1 based on PPI network analysis, of which TNF, TLR4, SCD, FASN, SREBF2 and TGFB1 were up-regulated in oleic acid-treated HepG2 cells. Functional enrichment analysis for biological processes highlighted programmed necrotic cell death, lipid metabolic process response to reactive oxygen species, and inflammation. In Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, the highest adjusted P-value signaling pathways encompassed AGE-RAGE in diabetic complications, TNF and HIF-1 signaling pathways. In gene-miRNA network analysis, miR-16 and miR-124 were highlighted as the miRNAs exerting the most influence on important NAFLD-related genes. ConclusionIn silico analyses identified NAFLD therapeutic targets and miRNA candidates to guide further experimental investigation.