Integration of single-cell sequencing and machine learning identifies key macrophage-associated genetic signatures in lumbar disc degeneration.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Lumbar disc degeneration, a primary cause of chronic low back pain, is closely linked to inflammatory responses and the immune microenvironment; however, its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Methods

This study integrated scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data to identify macrophage subpopulations in degenerative tissues and constructed co-expression modules using hdWGCNA. Functional enrichment was explored through GO, KEGG, and GSEA analyses. A panel of 101 machine learning algorithms was employed to screen diagnostic genes, with ROC curves used for validation. A combined diagnostic model for LDD risk was developed based on the expression profiles of the diagnostic genes. Additionally, immune infiltration was assessed via CIBERSORT, potential therapeutic c

SUBMITTER: Zhang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12705385 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature