Multi-omics and spatial transcriptomics decode the ZDHHC9-driven hypoxia-immunosuppressive axis in hepatocellular...

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global health challenge with limited treatment options, highlighting the urgent need for new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Protein palmitoylation, mediated by ZDHHC enzymes, plays a role in cancer, yet its comprehensive function in HCC development is not fully understood.

We conducted a systematic analysis of the ZDHHC family in HCC. Using data from TCGA and GEO databases, we assessed their expression, prognostic value, association with immune infiltration, and drug sensitivity. Diagnostic biomarkers were identified using ten machine learning algorithms. We then developed a consistent machine learning framework to build a robust multi-gene prognostic signature. The tumor microenvironment was further characterized through integrated single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analyses. The oncogenic role of our primary candidate, ZDHHC9, was functionally tested using siRNA knockdown, in vitro assays, and an in vivo xenograft model.

Our multi-omics analysis pinpointed ZDHHC9 as both a key prognostic factor and the top diagnostic biomarker. We successfully constructed and validated a powerful multi-gene prognostic signature across independent patient cohorts. High ZDHHC9 expression was associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and increased therapy resistance. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics revealed that ZDHHC9 is specifically upregulated in malignant epithelial cells, especially within hypoxic subpopulations. Pan-cancer analysis further confirmed that ZDHHC9 is frequently dysregulated and prognostically relevant in other cancer types. Functionally, depleting ZDHHC9 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, and suppressed tumor growth in vivo.

This study provides a comprehensive profile of the ZDHHC family in HCC, establishes a robust prognostic model, and nominates ZDHHC9 as a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker as well as a promising therapeutic target. The oncogenic function of ZDHHC9 appears to be linked to its role in promoting a hypoxic phenotype and fostering an immunosuppressive microenvironment.