Comprehensive Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNAs and mRNAs Expression in Single Suture Craniosynostosis Patients

Aim: To investigate the expression profile of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in closed and patent sutures from single suture craniosynostosis patients and explore their underlying functions. Methods Using a lncRNA microarray assay to determine the differential expression profile of lncRNA in sutures from three single suture craniosynostosis patients (two sagittal, one uni-coronal). We performed the functional analysis and constructed the lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network to explore the biological functions. Results There were 98 up-regulated, 125 down-regulated lncRNAs and 88 up-regulated, 122 down-regulated mRNAs identified in the closed sutures compared to the patent sutures (fold change > 1.5, P  < 0.05). GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that altered genes enriched in “extracellular matrix,” “skeletal system development,” and “osteoclast differentiation.” The lncRNAs-mRNAs co-expression network manifested the implication of lncRNA expression profiles in single suture craniosynostosis via interactions with mRNAs. Conclusion This is a novel study to present an expression profile of lncRNAs from craniosynostosis patients. lncRNAs may play a functional role in cranial suture development and premature fusion. The results provide a new perspective on the etiology of single suture craniosynostosis.