Differential Expression Profiles and Functional Analysis of Circular RNAS in Children with Fulminant Myocarditis

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To assess differential expression profiles of circular RNAs (circRNAs) and explore their possible functions in children with fulminant myocarditis. <b>Materials & methods:</b> circRNA microarray experiments were carried out for determining differential expression profiles of circRNAs in three children with fulminant myocarditis and three healthy volunteers. Functional analysis and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network building were conducted to study biological functions. <b>Results:</b> This work identified 2281 upregulated and 892 downregulated circRNAs. Further assessment confirmed hsa_circ_0071542 upregulation (2.5-fold) in fulminant myocarditis. Functional analysis demonstrated the differentially expressed circRNAs mainly contributed to inflammation and immunity. <b>Conclusion:</b> circRNAs might have substantial roles in pediatric fulminant myocarditis, and hsa_circ_0071542 could serve as a promising biomarker.