A Transcriptomic Analysis of Cancer-Stromal Interactome in Lung Cancer Xenograft Models

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Cancer-stromal interactions are crucial in lung adenocarcinoma progression.
• Identifying specific molecular players in these interactions is essential for understanding tumor aggressiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively analyze the lung cancer interactome.
• To identify key ligand-receptor pairs involved in lung adenocarcinoma aggressiveness.
• To evaluate the prognostic value of identified factors.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome data from lung cancer cell line xenografts were analyzed.
• Cancer-stromal interactome analysis was performed in both directions.
• Prognostic value was assessed using multiple public datasets and immunohistochemistry.

Main Results:

• 1150 cancer-stromal interactions were identified, with 117 selected based on intensity.
• 21 prognostic ligand-receptor pairs were identified.
• Tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 12 (TNFSF12) and its receptor, tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 12A (TNFRSF12A), were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• TNFSF12/TNFRSF12A signaling axis contributes to lung adenocarcinoma aggressiveness.
• TNFRSF12A expression correlates with tumor size, invasion, and stage in clinical specimens.
• This signaling axis represents a potential therapeutic target for lung adenocarcinoma.