Exploring the Role of SMPD3 in the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Network in TBI Progression by Influencing Energy Metabolism.

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with disturbances in energy metabolism. This study aimed to construct a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network through bioinformatics methods to explore energy metabolism-related genes in the pathogenesis of TBI.

METHODS

Data from datasets GSE171718, GSE131695, and GSE223245 obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus, were analyzed to identify differentially expressed (DE) genes. Regulatory relationships were investigated through miRDB, miRTarBase, and TargetScan, thereby forming a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. The Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB) was utilized to identify energy metabolism-related genes, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established through the STRING database. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis were conducted using GO and KEGG. The TBI mouse model was established to detect the expression levels of , and in brain tissues.

RESULTS

emerged as the key DE gene linked to energy metabolism in TBI, demonstrating a negative correlation with miR-218-5p and being associated with moderate unconsciousness and female patients. The PPI network revealed interactions with proteins associated with cell death, sphingolipid metabolism, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. In , and mRNA levels were significantly lower in TBI mice.

CONCLUSION

In summary, represents a crucial metabolic gene in the progression of TBI. It potentially provides a new therapeutic target for metabolic disorders caused by traumatic brain injury (TBI) and holds significant theoretical value for further research.