Article,
Evaluation of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) Involvement in Human Atrial Fibrillation: A Computational Study
Contributors
Fagone P.
0000-0002-6694-1992
(Corresponding author)
[1]
Mangano K.
0000-0001-5920-4620
[1]
Basile M.S.
0000-0002-4811-4694
[2]
Munoz-Valle J.F.
0000-0002-2272-9260
[3]
Nicoletti F.
0000-0002-4570-8462
[1]
Affiliations
- [1] Sezione INFN [NORA names: Italy; Europe, EU; OECD];
- [2] Kore University of Enna [NORA names: Italy; Europe, EU; OECD];
- [3] Universidad de Guadalajara [NORA names: Mexico; America, Central; OECD];
- [4] Institute for Inflammation Research [NORA names: Capital Region of Denmark; Hospital; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD]
Abstract
In the present study, we have explored the involvement of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) in atrial fibrillation (AF), by using a meta-analysis of publicly available human transcriptomic data. The meta-analysis revealed 565 upregulated and 267 downregulated differentially expressed genes associated with AF. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted a significant overrepresentation in immune-related pathways for the upregulated genes. A significant overlap between AF differentially expressed genes and TLR4-modulated genes was also identified, suggesting the potential role of TLR4 in AF-related transcriptional changes. Additionally, the analysis of other Toll-like receptors (TLRs) revealed a significant association with TLR2 and TLR3 in AF-related gene expression patterns. The examination of MYD88 and TICAM1, genes associated with TLR4 signalling pathways, indicated a significant yet nonspecific enrichment of AF differentially expressed genes. In summary, this study offers novel insights into the molecular aspects of AF, suggesting a pathophysiological role of TLR4 and other TLRs. By targeting these specific receptors, new treatments might be designed to better manage AF, offering hope for improved outcomes in affected patients.
