Key molecules associated with thyroid carcinoma prognosis: A study based on transcriptome sequencing and GEO datasets

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Thyroid carcinoma (THCA) incidence is increasing globally.
• Understanding THCA progression and prognosis is crucial due to its rising rates.
• Identifying key genes for THCA development is essential for clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To screen key genes associated with THCA development using transcriptome sequencing.
• To analyze the clinical significance and diagnostic value of identified genes in THCA.
• To investigate the prognostic potential of specific genes in thyroid carcinoma patients.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome sequencing of THCA and adjacent normal tissues.
• Bioinformatic analysis of gene expression profiles from GEO and TCGA databases.
• Validation of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using qRT-PCR and Western blot, alongside survival analysis and pathway enrichment (GO, KEGG, GSEA).

Main Results:

• Three key genes, regulator of G protein signaling 8 (RGS8), diacylglycerol kinase iota (DGKI), and oculocutaneous albinism II (OCA2), were identified as differentially expressed.
• Lower expression of RGS8, DGKI, and OCA2 mRNA and protein was observed in THCA tissues compared to normal tissues.
• Higher expression of RGS8, DGKI, and OCA2 correlated with significantly better progression-free survival in THCA patients.

Conclusions:

• RGS8, DGKI, and OCA2 show potential as promising prognostic molecular markers for THCA.
• These genes may reveal significant clinical insights into THCA progression and patient outcomes.
• Further research into RGS8, DGKI, and OCA2 could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for THCA.