Systematic multiomics analysis and in vitro experiments suggest that ITGA5 could serve as a promising therapeutic

Xiangxian Che1,2, Xi Tian1,3,2, Zhenda Wang1,3,2

  • 1Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'an Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.

Cancer Cell International
|November 5, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

High integrin alpha 5 (ITGA5) expression promotes clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) progression, leading to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Combining ITGA5 inhibitors with anti-angiogenic drugs may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for ccRCC patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Integrin alpha 5 (ITGA5) is implicated in various cancers, but its role in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains unclear.
  • Understanding ITGA5's function in ccRCC is crucial for developing targeted therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prognostic significance of ITGA5 in ccRCC.
  • To elucidate the role of ITGA5 in ccRCC progression and its impact on the tumor microenvironment (TME).
  • To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting ITGA5.

Main Methods:

  • Machine learning models were employed to assess ITGA5's prognostic value.
  • In vitro experiments evaluated the biological effects of varying ITGA5 expression levels.
  • Bioinformatic analyses explored ITGA5's comprehensive impact on the TME and drug sensitivity.

Main Results:

  • ITGA5 upregulation was correlated with VHL mutations in ccRCC.
  • ITGA5 promotes ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis.
  • High ITGA5 expression creates an immunosuppressive TME by reducing CD8+ T cell infiltration and recruiting macrophages.
  • ITGA5 inhibition combined with VEGFR-targeted drugs showed potential therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • High ITGA5 expression is associated with adverse outcomes in ccRCC patients.
  • ITGA5 drives ccRCC progression through proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and macrophage recruitment.
  • Targeting ITGA5 with inhibitors and anti-angiogenic agents presents a potential therapeutic strategy for ccRCC.