Abstract
BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is intricately influenced by dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting the Wnt signaling pathway, a phenomenon pivotal in CRC initiation and progression. The exploration of miRNA-Wnt interactions holds promise for innovative therapeutic strategies in CRC treatment. METHODS: a comprehensive list of genes influenced by dysregulated miRNAs targeting the Wnt pathway was compiled. High-scoring genes from the miRDB database underwent further analysis. Protein-protein interaction networks were constructed using Cytoscape and StringApp 2.0, with hub proteins identified through MCC, MNC, DMNC, and Degree algorithms. Gene ontology, KEGG enrichment analysis, CytoCluster, and promoter motif analysis were employed to characterize gene functions, associations, dysregulated clusters, and regulatory elements. RESULTS: Protein-protein interaction networks unveiled 15 central hub proteins, including EP300, , NRAS, NF1, CCND1, SMAD4, SOCS7, SOCS6, NECAP1, MBTD1, ACVR1C, ESR1, CREBBP, and PIK3CA. Gene ontology and KEGG analysis revealed their involvement in critical biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions. CytoCluster analysis identified dysregulated miRNA-targeted gene clusters linked to cancer-related pathways. Promoter motif analysis provided insights into regulatory elements governing hub protein expression. CONCLUSION: The identified hub proteins, enriched in cancer-related pathways, offer potential therapeutic targets. These findings pave the way for future research, enhancing our ability to develop targeted interventions for improved outcomes in CRC treatment.