Uncovering systems-level molecular similarities between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases

Abstract

Abstract Background: Two of the most prevalent central neuron system disorders are Alzheimer (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Interestingly, despite their differences in both pathological and molecular basis of the diseases, they exhibit some degrees of similarities. Here, we have conducted a comparative systems-level analysis study for these diseases. Cohort cortex samples from healthy control cases and AD/PD patients were obtained, then we have applied weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Results: Network analysis identified key modules of genes related to each of these diseases. Gene ontology enrichment of the modules showed the involvement of both disease-specific and shared biological processes, including chemical synaptic transmission, nervous system development, and immune responses that are involved in both AD and PD. Surprisingly, the expression patterns for the gene members of the shared modules were strikingly identical. Additionally, we have introduced a handful of novel genes, including INPP4A, CREG2, ABI3, MYO1F, NAPB, NXN, DOCK6, CPSF6, and IKZF1, with potential functionality in both diseases; AD and PD. Conclusions: In conclusion, besides unveiling the presence of high molecular level similarities between AD and PD, for the first time, several novel genes have been proposed that can open a new opportunity for diagnostic or treatment applications.