T cell proliferation-related subtypes, prognosis model and characterization of tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND

Thirty-three synthetic driver genes of T-cell proliferation have recently been identified through genome-scale screening. However, the tumor microenvironment (TME) cell infiltration, prognosis, and response to immunotherapy mediated by multiple T cell proliferation-related genes (TRGs) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remain unclear.

METHODS

This study examined the genetic and transcriptional changes in 771 patients with HNSC by analyzing the TRGs from two independent datasets. Two different subtypes were analyzed to investigate their relationship with immune infiltrating cells in the TME and patient prognosis. The study also developed and validated a risk score to predict overall survival (OS). Furthermore, to enhance the clinical utility of the risk score, an accurate nomogram was constructed by combining the characteristics of this study.

RESULTS

The low-risk score observed in this study was associated with high levels of immune checkpoint expression and TME immune activation, indicating a favorable OS outcome. Additionally, various factors related to risk scores were depicted.

CONCLUSION

Through comprehensive analysis of TRGs in HNSC, our study has revealed the characteristics of the TME and prognosis, providing a basis for further investigation into TRGs and the development of more effective immunotherapy and targeted therapy strategies.