To explore the associations among circulating microRNAs, erythroid phenotypes, iron homeostasis, and pediatric tic disorders, emphasizing their potential significance in understanding TD pathogenesis.
Key Findings:
hsa-miR-125b-5p and hsa-miR-23a-3p were significantly upregulated in the TD group, indicating potential biomarkers.
TD children exhibited lower hemoglobin, MCV, serum ferritin, transferrin, and total iron-binding capacity, suggesting impaired iron metabolism.
An integrated model combining hsa-miR-125b-5p, MCV, and transferrin showed excellent diagnostic performance (AUC=0.977), highlighting its potential clinical utility.
Network analyses revealed pathways linking miRNA regulation to erythroid and iron-related processes, suggesting broader biological implications.
Interpretation:
Children with tic disorders may experience dysregulation of circulating miRNAs, erythroid profiles, and iron metabolism, suggesting a potential peripheral regulatory mechanism relevant to neurodevelopmental pathology, with implications for future diagnostic strategies.
Limitations:
Small sample size may limit generalizability and increase the risk of type I error.
Cross-sectional design does not establish causality, necessitating longitudinal studies.
Conclusion:
The study provides insights into the molecular framework linking miRNAs, erythroid characteristics, and iron regulation in tic disorders, which may aid in developing objective biomarkers and inform future research directions.
