Deciphering the Molecular Interactions of Tuberculosis and Colorectal Cancer: A Network and RNA-Seq Data Analysis Approach

Introduction: A recent study revealed a correlation between TB and cancer, with individuals with a history of TB or current symptoms having a greater likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. This study aimed to explore transcriptomics data to identify new potential common therapeutic targets for CRC and tuberculosis. Methods: The GSE11199 dataset associated with TB and the GSE33113 dataset associated with CRC were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus. The study identified commonly upregulated genes via R language, built a protein‒protein interaction network, and visualized it via Cytoscape, Cytohubba, and MCODE, revealing the role of miRNAs and TFs in regulating hub genes. Results: A total of 40 genes were found to be commonly upregulated, six of which were identified as hub genes, i.e., CXCL5, MMP3, MMP1, CXCL8, CXCL11, and SPP1. In addition, 58 miRNAs and 28 TFs were found to be associated with the hub genes. Discussion: Our findings revealed that key genes associated with the tumor immune microenvironment such as CXCL5, an inflammatory chemokine; CXCL8, a neutrophil-attracting chemokine; CXCL11, which is chemotactic for activated T-cells; and SPP1, which promotes the recruitment of immune cells to the tumor microenvironment and is significantly linked with various miRNAs and transcription factors, could regulate the functions of these hub genes and contribute to the progression and pathology of CRC and TB. Conclusion: The identified genes hold strong potential to apprise the development of targeted therapeutic strategies and advance clinical applications for patients affected by both conditions.