AIM: To identify immune-related key genes and the extent of immune cell infiltration in a oxygen-induced retinopathy(OIR)model by bioinformatics method.

METHODS: Microarray data were obtained from the GEO database, differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified using the “limma” R package, GO function enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis were conducted, and immune cell infiltration based on the CIBERSORT algorithm was analyzed. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis(WGCNA)was used to screen DEGs in the immune-related gene module, constructing a protein-protein interaction(PPI)network using STRING online database and Cytoscape software, and further screening final target genes using the cytoHubba plug-in.

RESULTS: A total of 467 DEGs were screened, including 270 up-regulated and 197 down-regulated genes. Helper T cell 2(Th2 cells), an immune cell type, exhibited significantly high expression levels(P<0.05). WGCNA analysis identified 66 differential genes in modules most closely related to immunity. After constructing the PPI network, 5 key genes were screened through plug-ins: von Willebrand factor(vWF), vascular endothelial growth factor A(VEGF-A), Serping1, apoptosis inducing factor 1(AIF1)and signal transducers and activators of transcription 3(STAT3).

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into immune cell infiltration in OIR as well as key genes related to immunity through bioinformatics analysis, which can serve as a reference for further research and treatment of retinal neovascular diseases.