Construction of a ceRNA network specific for granulosa cells in PCOS

Abstract Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disease with a polygenic genetic model that occurs in 8 – 13% of women of reproductive age. In this study we constructed the granulose cell-specific competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in polycystic ovary syndrome. The ceRNA network analysis may provide novel insights into PCOS pathophysiology and identify potential therapeutic targets. Materials and methods The study included 6 women aged 26 to 34 years old: 3 women with PCOS and 3 women of the control group who underwent IVF procedure. Before RNA extraction GCs from three follicle samples of each group were collected and randomly pooled together as one mixed sample. Using RNA-sequencing we defined the microRNAs, lncRNAs and mRNAs expression profiles of GCs. The analysis of differential gene expression was performed using the DESeq v.1.39.0. The analysis of the interaction of microRNAs and lncRNAs was performed using RNAhybrid; of microRNAs and mRNAs - using the miRWalk database. Cytoscape 3.10.0 software was used to construct the ceRNA network. Results As a result of the differential gene expression analysis using the DESeq package we identified 3 differentially expressed microRNAs in PCOS, 132 - lncRNAs and 564 - mRNAs. The final ceRNA network included 3 microRNAs, 105 lncRNAs and 252 mRNAs. Conclusion This research underscores the importance of understanding ceRNA networks as a pathway for discovering biomarkers and developing treatments tailored to the unique challenges faced by individuals with PCOS. Further research is warranted to validate the identified interactions and explore their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets.