Cancer-associated fibroblasts gene signature: a novel approach to survival prediction and immunotherapy guidance in colon cancer.

BACKGROUND

Fibroblasts can regulate tumour development by secreting various factors. For COAD survival prediction and CAFs-based treatment recommendations, it is critical to comprehend the heterogeneity of CAFs and find biomarkers.

METHODS

We identified fibroblast-associated specific marker genes in colon adenocarcinoma by single-cell sequencing analysis. A fibroblasts-related gene signature was developed, and colon adenocarcinoma patients were classified into high-risk and low-risk cohorts based on the median risk score. Additionally, the impact of these risk categories on the tumor microenvironment was evaluated. The ability of CAFGs signature to assess prognosis and guide treatment was validated using external cohorts. Ultimately, we verified MAN1B1 expression and function through assays.

RESULTS

Relying on the bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq data study, we created a predictive profile with 11 CAFGs. The profile effectively differentiated survival differences among cohorts of colon adenocarcinoma patients. The nomogram further effectively predicted the prognosis of COAD patients, with low-risk patients having a better prognosis. A higher immune infiltration rate and lower IC50 values of anticancer drugs were significant in the high-risk group. In cellular experiments, Following MAN1B1 knockdown, in cell assays, the colony formation, migration, and invasion ability of HCT116 and HT29 cell lines decreased.

CONCLUSION

Our CAFG signature provides important insights into the role of CAF cells in influencing COAD prognosis. It may also serve as a guide for selecting immunotherapy options and predicting chemotherapy responses in COAD patients.