Investigation of Immune Infiltration Characteristics and Biomarker Potential of Ferroptosis and Autophagy-Related Genes in Vitiligo

Background Vitiligo is a dermatological condistion marked by the depletion of melanocytes, resulting in the formation of depigmented areas on the skin. Recent studies have indicated a potential link between vitiligo and key cellular processes such as ferroptosis and autophagy. In this investigation, our objective was to pinpoint the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with ferroptosis and autophagy through the analysis of the GSE75819 dataset sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. This research may yield significant insights into the disorder's pathophysiology while underscoring potential biomarkers for early detection and intervention. Methods In thie present invesigation, we conducted an comprehxtensive bioinformatics analysis to identify DEGs in vitiligo tissues compared to normal skin,.We focused on hub genes identified in relevant protein-protein interaction networks, particularly those linked to ferroptosis and autophagy. Subsequently, we analyzed the expression levels of these genes in affected tissues to assess the disruption of regulatory mechanisms governing these critical cellular processes. Finally the vitiligo mouse model has been successfully established,which and through HE staining, Masson staining,Masson-Fontana staining, and qPCR analysis, the pivotal hub gene was confirmed. Results NPM1(Nucleophosmin 1) ,RPL26(Ribosomal Protein L26), RPS27A (Ribosomal Protein S27a), RPS3A(Ribosomal Protein S3a), RPL24(Ribosomal Protein L24), and NACA(Nascent Polypeptide-Associated Complex Alpha Subunit) were identified as essential common genes, with RPL26 potentially functioning as the most promising biomarker associated with ferroptosis and autophagy in vitiligo. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that Macrophage M1 cells exhibited a markedly differential expression in individuals with vitiligo compared to the normal cohort. The TFs FOXC1 and SREBF1 are important TFs for vitiligo. The qPCR analysis showed the related mRNA levels of RPL26 was highly expressed. Conclusion The RPL26 may represent the most promising therapeutic target associated with ferroptosis and autophagy in vitiligo within this research.