Integrated single-cell analysis with experimental validation reveals ANXA2 as a therapeutic target for ferroptosis in inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by intestinal dysfunction. Ferroptosis is a critical pathogenic mechanism in IBD. However, the therapeutic targets for ferroptosis-related IBD progression remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to identify potential therapeutic targets associated with ferroptosis in IBD. METHODS: validation, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced IBD mouse model was established. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining was then performed to examine ANXA2 expression and its co-localization with collagen type I alpha 2 chain (COL1A2) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in colon tissues. RESULTS: , ANXA2 was significantly up-regulated in the colon tissues of IBD mice, showing strong co-localization with the fibroblast marker COL1A2 and the ferroptosis marker 4-HNE. CONCLUSION: ANXA2 is highly expressed in fibroblasts and is associated with the ferroptosis of IBD, providing a novel therapeutic target for treatment of IBD.