TraceEyeDisease: a web-based database for investigating trace elements and their imbalances in eye diseases

Abstract

Eye diseases remain a significant global health concern, with trace elements crucial in maintaining ocular health and preventing ocular disorders. In ocular health, trace elements have been recognized as critical factors influencing the development and progression of multiple eye diseases. In this study, we conducted a thorough literature search through PubMed to acquire data concerning different eye diseases associated with trace elements. These diseases are essential in trace element imbalances or deficiencies in their progression. Our approach included a meticulous compilation of information from various databases, systematically integrated into a carefully curated database. In total, we identified 178 distinct genes that encode proteins linked to fourteen trace elements in this comprehensive list. A web-based database designed to formulate evidence-based hypotheses regarding the impact of trace element deficiency and imbalance on eye diseases was presented using Shiny R. This study underscores the vital role of trace elements in preserving ocular health. The Shiny R application facilitates subsequent investigations, fostering enhanced insights into public health, clinical practices, and eye disease research. The URL of TraceEyeDiseas is https://tredis.shinyapps.io/TraceEyeDisease/ .

Keywords: Database; Eye diseases; Shiny R; Trace elements.

Fig. 1

(A) Illustration of the workflow used to develop TraceEyeDisease. (B) Screenshot of the Shiny R application interface. The left panel contains filters that allow users to select interactions based on different criteria: (1) a gene or protein list (with a default display of 10 data points when empty), (2) a specific trace element, and (3) gene attribute linked to selected pathways or biological processes. The data are presented in the table on the right-hand side of the interface

Fig. 2

(A) Sankey diagram visualizing complex relationships of multiple trace element-interacting genes. (B) Pairwise trace element intersections accounting for mutual shared interactions