Identification of a deubiquitinating gene-related signature in ovarian cancer using integrated transcriptomic analysis and machine learning framework.

BACKGROUND

Ovarian carcinoma represents an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic efficacy. While deubiquitinating (DUB) genes are known to regulate crucial cellular processes and cancer progression, their specific roles in ovarian carcinoma remain poorly understood.

METHODS

We conducted an integrated analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk transcriptome data from public databases. DUB genes were identified through Genecard database. Using the Seurat package, we performed cell clustering and differential expression analysis. Cell-cell communications were analyzed using CellChat. A DUB-related risk signature (DRS) was developed using machine learning approaches through integration of GEO and TCGA datasets. The prognostic value and immune characteristics of the signature were systematically evaluated.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed eight distinct cell subtypes in the tumor microenvironment, including epithelial, fibroblast, myeloid, and Treg cells. DUB-high cells were predominantly found in Treg and myeloid populations, exhibiting elevated expression of tumor-related pathways and enhanced cell-cell communication networks, particularly between fibroblasts and myeloid cells. Conversely, DUB-low cells were enriched in epithelial populations with reduced immune activity. The DRS model demonstrated robust prognostic value across multiple independent cohorts. High-risk patients, as classified by the DRS, showed significantly poorer survival outcomes and distinct immune infiltration patterns compared to low-risk patients.

CONCLUSION

This study provides comprehensive insights into DUB gene expression patterns across different cell populations in ovarian carcinoma. The established DRS model offers a promising tool for risk stratification and may guide personalized therapeutic strategies. Our findings highlight the potential role of DUB genes in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and patient outcomes in ovarian carcinoma.