CEBPA as a potential hub gene for cutaneous inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background: The role of inflammation in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) related skin complications necessitates further investigation. This study aims to explore the correlation between inflammation and cutaneous alterations in T2DM, enhancing comprehension of underlying mechanism involved.

Methods: Utilizing bioinformatics, the GSE38396 and GSE92724 datasets were employed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and potential hub genes in T2DM-related skin inflammation. Subsequently, gene functional enrichment analysis was employed for functional annotation. Finally, we validated the regulatory impact of hub gene on inflammation during high glucose incubation using the in vitro model.

Results: A comprehensive analysis identified 742 DEGs, including 9 hub genes and 4 potential biomarkers. Compared to the CON group, the expression of M2 macrophages was significantly upregulated in the T2DM group, while resting dendritic cells and eosinophils showed notable decreases, indicating a significant correlation with CEBPA. Furthermore, functional enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of DEGs in pathways linked to immunity and diabetes pathogenesis. Interestingly, overexpression of CEBPA demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects under hyperglycemic conditions, while silencing CEBPA expression appeared to worsen inflammation.

Conclusion: CEBPA emerges as a potential hub gene for skin inflammation in T2DM, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of this condition.