Identification of SDC4 as a potential target for obesity via integrated analysis of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in visceral adipose tissue

Obesity is a major global health issue. This study aimed to elucidate its molecular mechanisms by analysing the expression of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in visceral adipose tissue. Through integrated transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of obese and normal groups, we observed 118, 92 and 227 differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis revealed these genes were primarily involved in immune response and inflammation-related pathways. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed, identifying key interactions among five target genes, including SDC4. Validation confirmed SDC4 was significantly upregulated in obese subjects, and this expression level positively correlated with body mass index and triglyceride. These findings suggest that SDC4 offers the possibility of being a therapeutic target for obesity.