Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 22, 2026
Development of Compendium for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 12, 2024
Key modules and hub genes identified by coexpression network analysis for revealing novel biomarkers for larynx
Hang Zhang1, Xudong Zhao1, Mengmeng Wang2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
Abstract:
Larynx squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the second most aggressive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Numerous genes have been identified to be aberrantly expressed during the development of LSCC. However, currently, researchers focus more on the individual molecule and downstream genes, leaving the coexpression among genes and key upstream disease driver genes unexploited. In this study, we applied weighted gene coexpression analysis (WGCNA) to decipher potential hub genes driving the development of LSCC. After downloading of LSCC microarray profile from gene expression omnibus, different expression analysis was performed, which was used to conduct functional enrichment analysis. Then, we applied WGCNA to highlight the hub genes which were relevant to the carcinogenesis and progression. A total of 2858 differentially expressed genes were identified in LSCC samples compared with adjacent non-neoplastic tissues. WGCNA revealed three LSCC set-specific modules having significant Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment effect, including pink, cyan, and black module. Nine hub genes were identified to be crucial in LSCC onset and progression, which may assist clinical decisions and serve as potential targets for LSCC treatment.
Insights
This study identifies key genes driving larynx squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) using weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). Nine crucial hub genes were discovered, offering potential new targets for LSCC treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- Larynx squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is a highly aggressive cancer.
- Previous research focused on individual genes, neglecting gene coexpression and upstream drivers.
- Understanding gene networks is crucial for identifying LSCC development mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify potential hub genes driving LSCC development using weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA).
- To explore gene coexpression patterns in LSCC.
- To uncover novel therapeutic targets for LSCC.
Main Methods:
- Downloaded and analyzed LSCC microarray data from Gene Expression Omnibus.
- Performed differential gene expression analysis and functional enrichment analysis.
- Applied WGCNA to identify significant gene modules and hub genes.
Main Results:
- Identified 2858 differentially expressed genes between LSCC and non-neoplastic tissues.
- WGCNA revealed three significant LSCC-specific modules (pink, cyan, black) with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment.
- Discovered nine hub genes critical for LSCC onset and progression.
Conclusions:
- Nine hub genes are identified as crucial drivers in larynx squamous cell carcinoma.
- These findings provide potential targets for LSCC clinical decisions and treatment.
- WGCNA is effective in uncovering gene networks driving LSCC.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids,...
02:26Protein Networks
These interactions can be represented through maps depicting protein-protein interaction networks, represented as nodes and edges. Nodes are circles that are representative of a protein,...
02:26Protein Networks
01:19Key Techniques in Microbiology
02:35Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
02:18Network Covalent Solids
To break or to melt a covalent network solid, covalent bonds must be broken. Because covalent bonds are relatively strong, covalent network solids are typically...