The Correlation and Clinicopathological Significance of TNFAIP8L3 and RAC1 Expression in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. However, the expression and role of TIPE3 and RAC1 in LUAD are not well characterized. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the expression and clinicopathological significance of TNFAIP8L3 (TIPE3) and RAC1 in LUAD, as well as the relationship between these two proteins. Methods: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was utilized to detect the expression of TIPE3 and RAC1 in tumor and adjacent normal tissues from 183 LUAD patients. A comprehensive analysis of clinicopathological data and subsequent follow-up outcomes was conducted in relation to TIPE3 and RAC1 expression levels. The correlation between these two proteins was also evaluated. Results: Both TIPE3 and RAC1 expression were upregulated in tumor tissues of LUAD. TIPE3 expression was significantly associated with advanced T stage (p=0.001), N stage (p=0.005), and TNM stage (p=0.001). Similarly, increased RAC1 expression was also associated with advanced T stage (p=0.003), N stage (p=0.003), and TNM stage (p=0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression modeling demonstrated that increased TIPE3 and RAC1 expression were independent prognostic factors for poor outcomes in LUAD. Furthermore, Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive association between TIPE3 and RAC1 expression (r = 0.305, p < 0.001). Combined expression of TIPE3 and RAC1 improved risk stratification and prognostic prediction in LUAD. Conclusion: TIPE3 and RAC1 serve as potential biomarkers of tumor progression and poor prognosis in LUAD, offering promising targets for future therapeutic interventions.