Integrated bioinformatics analysis reveals that CCBP2 and GPR87 are new GPCR-associated biomarkers for preeclampsia

Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2024 Nov 26;22(1):151. doi: 10.1186/s12958-024-01324-5.

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) is a multifaceted pregnancy syndrome marked by multiple system involvement and a significant contributor to maternal mortality. This condition is characterized by a critical lack of early diagnostic measures and viable therapeutic options, underscoring an urgent need for the identification of reliable markers with both diagnostic and therapeutic potential.

Methods: This study utilized Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) to explore the role of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the pathogenesis of PE.

Results: Our analysis pinpointed CCBP2 (ACKR2) and GPR87 as central PE-associated GPCRs. Experimental validation of these findings revealed that both CCBP2 and GPR87 significantly inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of trophoblast cells-core phenomena underlying the pathology of PE.

Conclusion: Thus, our findings add valuable candidates to the growing list of biomarkers for preeclampsia and offer promising targets for future therapeutic development.

Keywords: Biomarkers; G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs); Preeclampsia (PE); Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA).

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers* / metabolism
  • Cell Movement / genetics
  • Cell Proliferation / genetics
  • Computational Biology* / methods
  • Female
  • Gene Regulatory Networks
  • Humans
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / diagnosis
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / genetics
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / metabolism
  • Pregnancy
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled* / genetics
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled* / metabolism
  • Trophoblasts / metabolism

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled