Screening and Bioinformatics Analysis of Differential Genes in Autism Spectrum Disorder Based on GEO Database.

Objective: The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children has been increasing year by year, which has seriously affected the quality of life of children. There are many theories about the cause of ASDs, with some studies suggesting that it may be related to gene expression levels or inflammation and immune system dysfunction. But the exact mechanism is not fully understood.

Methods: profile of gene expression The protein interaction network (PPI) of differentially expressed genes was created using the STRING web tool and GSE77103, which was chosen from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Using the CytoHubba plugin of Cytoscape program, the hub genes were examined. The hub gene regulatory network for miRNA-mRNA was then built.

Results: We identified 551 differentially expressed genes(DEGs) in 8 children with ASD and normal children. In addition, we screened out 10 hub genes (MX1, ISG15, IRF7, DDX58, IFIT1, BCL2L1, HPGDS, CTSD, PTGS2 and CD68) that were most associated with the development of ASDs. Then, microRNAs (miRNAs) closely related to hub genes (such as has-miR-27a-5p) were screened, and the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was constructed.

Conclusion: In this study, a total of 10 hub genes were identified, including MX1, ISG15, IRF7, DDX58, IFIT1, BCL2L1, HPGDS, CTSD, PTGS2 and CD68, which are closely related to ASD. These genes may play a key role in the occurrence and progression of ASD. In addition, we also revealed some miRNAs that regulate the hub genes of ASD. These results may deepen our understanding of ASD and provide potential biomarkers and targets for future treatment of patients with ASD.