Identification of potential differentially methylated gene-related biomarkers in endometriosis

Aim: To identify epigenetic alterations of differentially expressed genes and screen out targeted therapeutic drugs in endometriosis. Methods: Based on the Gene Expression Omnibus database and a series of biological information analysis tools, supplemented by validation of clinical samples, aberrant DNA methylation-driven genes and their functions were explored, as well as possible targeted drugs. Results: This study screened out a range of DNA methylation-driven genes that were associated with powerful properties and corresponding pathways. Among them, BDNF and CCL2 were key genes in the development of endometriosis. Four chemical agents have been flagged as potential treatments for endometriosis. Conclusion: These candidate genes and small-molecule agents may be further explored as potential targets and drugs for endometriosis diagnosis and therapy, respectively.What is the significance of studying endometriosis? Endometriosis is a common gynecological benign disease affecting an estimated 5–10% of women in their reproductive years. Women with endometriosis suffer from chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia and dysmenorrhea, and some patients face the possibility of infertility. What were the results of this study? The authors explored a number of key genes that may contribute to the etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis, discussed the reasons for the changes in the expression levels of these hub genes and then screened for a number of effective small-molecule chemical drugs that may act on endometriosis. What do the results of this study mean? The authors carried out research from the three aspects of etiology, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. First, it demonstrated that endometriosis patients did have some differentially expressed genes compared with controls, and then in the analysis of these abnormally expressed genes, it was found that DNA methylation may play an essential role. This is a more meaningful hint, whether the occurrence of endometriosis can be suppressed by targeting methylation modification and then affecting the expression of key genes. In addition, the different severity of endometriosis will also have varying degrees of impact on patients' quality of life. These results are also a good indicator of the severity of endometriosis. Therefore, early detection and timely treatment are guidelines for the treatment of endometriosis. Finally, some of the chemical agents identified to target the cause of endometriosis are expected to become new treatments for endometriosis, supported by the results of follow-up studies, which will lead to more accurate treatments for patients with fewer side effects than existing treatments.