Application of angiogenesis-related genes associated with immune infiltration in the molecular typing and diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction

Background: Angiogenesis has been discovered to be a critical factor in developing tumors and ischemic diseases. However, the role of angiogenesis-related genes (ARGs) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains unclear.

Methods: The GSE66360 dataset was used as the training cohort, and the GSE48060 dataset was used as the external validation cohort. The random forest (RF) algorithm was used to identify the signature genes. Consensus clustering analysis was used to identify robust molecular clusters associated with angiogenesis. The ssGSEA was used to analyze the correlation between ARGs and immune cell infiltration. In addition, we constructed miRNA-gene, transcription factor network, and targeted drug network of signature genes. RT-qPCR was used to verify the expression levels of signature genes.

Results: Seven signature ARGs were identified based on the RF algorithm. Receiver operating characteristic curves confirmed the classification accuracy of the risk predictive model based on signature ARGs (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.9596 in the training cohort and AUC = 0.7773 in the external validation cohort). Subsequently, the ARG clusters were identified by consensus clustering. Cluster B had a more generalized high expression of ARGs and was significantly associated with immune infiltration. The miRNA and transcription factor network provided new ideas for finding potential upstream targets and biomarkers. Finally, the results of RT-qPCR were consistent with the bioinformatics analysis, further validating our results.

Conclusions: Angiogenesis is closely related to AMI, and characterizing the angiogenic features of patients with AMI can help to risk-stratify patients and provide personalized treatment.