VCAM1: an effective diagnostic marker related to immune cell infiltration in diabetic nephropathy

Introduction The role of immune cells in the pathogenesis and advancement of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is crucial. The objective of this study was to identify immune-cell-related biomarkers that could potentially aid in the diagnosis and management of DN. Methods The GSE96804 dataset was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, screen for intersections between differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and immune-related genes (IRGs). Identify core genes through protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and the Cytoscape plugin. Subsequently, functional enrichment analysis was conducted. In addition, ROC analysis is performed to accurately identify diagnostic biomarkers. Apply the CIBERSORT algorithm to evaluate the proportion of immune cell infiltration. Finally, the mRNA, protein, and immunofluorescence expression of the biomarker was validated in the DN rat model. Results The study yielded 74 shared genes associated with DN. Enrichment analysis indicated significant enrichment of these genes in focal adhesion, the humoral immune response, activation of the immune response, Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and IL-17 signaling pathway. The optimal candidate gene VCAM1 was identified. The presence of VCAM1 in DN was further validated using the ROC curve. Analysis of immune cell infiltration matrices revealed a high abundance of monocytes, naïve B cells, memory B cells, and Macrophages M1/M2 in DN tissues. Correlation analysis identified one hub biomarker associated with immune-infiltrated cells in DN. Furthermore, our findings were validated through in vivo RT qPCR, WB, and IF techniques. Conclusions Our research indicates that VCAM1 is a signature gene associated with DN and is linked to the progression, treatment, and prognosis of DN. A comprehensive examination of immune infiltration signature genes may offer new perspectives on the clinical diagnosis and management of DN.