Potential oncogene VPS72 in hepatocellular carcinoma: prognostic and immune infiltration implications

VPS72, primarily located in the nucleus, may play a role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. More research is required to assess if VPS72 mRNA or protein levels, along with clinical parameters, can diagnose or predict HCC and affect its progression through immune cell infiltration regulation.

This study explored VPS72 mRNA and protein levels in HCC using bioinformatics and clinical samples, examining their relationship with clinical factors and immune cell infiltration.

VPS72 levels were higher in HCC patients and linked to histologic grade, clinical stage, and T stage. Elevated mRNA and protein levels of VPS72 were associated with preoperative alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and tumor thrombus in HBV-related HCC, while genetic changes increasing VPS72 mRNA correlated with lower overall survival (OS). VPS72 promoter hypomethylation was observed in HCC, and Cox regression showed VPS72 as an independent prognostic factor. A nomogram links Vps72 levels to HCC risk, and the ROC curve demonstrates Vps72's diagnostic potential. GSEA indicates Vps72 overexpression enhances purine and pyrimidine metabolism and cell cycle pathways. HCC tissues have more M0 macrophages, associated with poor prognosis, and high Vps72 expression is linked to increased M0 macrophage infiltration and decreased CD4⁺ memory resting T cells.

VPS72 may function as an oncogene, worsening OS by reducing tumor-fighting CD4⁺ T cells and increasing pro-tumor M0 macrophages in HCC. VPS72 could be a diagnostic and prognostic marker and an immunotherapy target for HCC.