Sequencing of RNA data in DR patients and healthy controls

We collected whole blood samples from 10 individuals with DR and 10 normal controls (NCs) for transcriptome sequencing. Following quality control and preprocessing of the sequencing data, differential expression analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the DR and NC groups. Candidate genes were then selected by intersecting these DEGs with key module genes identified through weighted gene co-expression network analysis. These candidate genes were subjected to mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, then least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis to pinpoint key genes. The diagnostic utility of these key genes was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and their expression levels were examined. Additional analysis, including nomogram construction, gene set enrichment analysis, drug prediction and molecular docking, were performed to investigate the functions and molecular mechanisms of the key genes.