Molecular mechanism analysis of nontuberculous mycobacteria infection in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Aim: This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms of cystic fibrosis (CF) complicated with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection. Materials & methods: Expression profiles of CF with NTM-infected patients were downloaded from GEO database. Intersection analysis yielded 78 genes associated with CF with NTM infection. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the functions of hub genes were investigated.

Results

Five hub genes (PIK3R1, IL1A, CXCR4, ACTN1, PFN1) were identified, which were primarily enriched in actin-related biological processes and pathways. Transcription factors RELA, JUN, NFKB1 and FOS that regulated hub genes modulated IL1A expression, while 21 other transcription factors regulated CXCR4 expression.

Conclusion

In summary, this study may provide new insights into the mechanisms of CF with NTM infection.