Network Biology (Dec 2024)
Network-based investigation to identify the common gene-disease linkage between Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy
Abstract
Neurological illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and epilepsy (EP) have a significant impact on worldwide health. This study uses network pharmacology and genomic analysis to find shared genes and pathways linked to various illnesses.The STRING database was used to identify shared genes between AD, PD, and EP. Associated proteins of common genes were obtained and imported into Cytoscape to design and analyze networks. Gene enrichment analysis was performed using ShinyGO V0.77. AD, PD, and EP share three genes: KIF5A, NDUFB9, and MT-ND1. Network analysis showed relationships between these genes and their associated proteins. Pathway enrichment study revealed major pathways, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, Neurodegeneration, and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. The current study revealed genetic interconnectivity of AD, PD, and EP, underlining the role of mitochondrial failure, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction in their development. KIF5A, NDUFB9, and MT-ND1 play critical roles in these pathways, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Indirect interactions between these genes via common proteins such as SNCA and MAPT indicate complicated regulatory networks. Identifying common genes and pathways sheds light on shared mechanisms underlying AD, PD, and EP. Drug repurposing opportunities targeting key proteins like SNCA and MAPT may offer novel therapeutic avenues.