Association of a novel RNA m6A regulatory gene expression signature with proliferation and disease progression in oral cancer.

Abstract

e18060 Background: This study investigated the expression patterns and clinical importance of a newly identified RNA m6A regulatory gene, CNBP, in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its relationship with cell proliferation and disease advancement. Methods: The expression levels of CNBP mRNA and protein were assessed in 51 samples of OSCC and their corresponding normal tissues using real-time PCR and western blot techniques. The results were confirmed in a larger cohort by utilizing the TCGA-OSCC dataset, linking CNBP expression with clinical and pathological characteristics as well as immune signatures. Survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method was conducted to determine patient survival outcomes. CNBP expression was further analyzed with PD-1 immunotherapy response. Functional enrichment analysis was carried out to identify pathways related to the genes within the CNBP network. Statistical analysis was performed with P < 0.05 as a significance. Results: CNBP levels were significantly increased in OSCC samples when compared to normal tissues (p < 0.05). Elevated CNBP expression was closely linked to advanced tumor characteristics and unfavorable progression outcomes (p < 0.05). Additionally, CNBP expression was significantly altered in the PD-1 immunotherapy patient group. Analysis of functional enrichment showed that the genes within the CNBP network were significantly connected to cancer-related pathways, underscoring its potential involvement in disease mechanisms. Conclusions: CNBP shows elevated expression in OSCC and is linked to tumor growth and immunotherapy response. This evidence highlights CNBP promise as a biomarker and a therapeutic target in oral cancer.