AKT2 for Modifying the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway is crucial in lung adenocarcinomas (LUAD).
• Understanding its link to the tumor microenvironment is vital for LUAD progression.
• This study investigates the role of AKT2 within this pathway in LUAD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the correlation between the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, specifically AKT2, and the tumor microenvironment in LUAD.
• To assess the impact of AKT2 expression on patient survival and immune cell infiltration in LUAD.

Main Methods:

• Utilized TCGA data to analyze AKT2 expression in LUAD versus normal tissues.
• Performed Gene Ontology and KEGG enrichment analysis.
• Employed R language for immune cell infiltration analysis and correlation with AKT2 levels.

Main Results:

• AKT2 was significantly upregulated in LUAD tissues, associated with shorter overall survival.
• High AKT2 expression linked to activated immune-related pathways and increased regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD8+ T cells.
• Elevated AKT2 correlated with immune checkpoints and tumor mutational burden (TMB), suggesting immune evasion.

Conclusions:

• High AKT2 expression in LUAD is associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
• Characterized by reduced γδT cells and increased Tregs, contributing to immune evasion in LUAD patients.