Cuproptosis-related lncRNAs signature as a potential predictor biomarker for prognosis and immune response in LUAD patients

Abstract

Abstract Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common subtype of lung cancer on a global scale, and the patients are suffering from a poor survival outcome. Cuproptosis and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) are recognized to have significant prognostic value and play important roles in immunotherapy for LUAD. Therefore, identifying cuproptosis-related lncRNAs are vital for the prognosis and treatment of LUAD. Methods: Cuproptosis-related lncRNAs in LUAD were initially screened out. Uni-variate, LASSO and multi-variate Cox regression models were adopted to establish lncRNA signature of prognostic significance for LUAD. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and functional enrichment analysis were performed. A nomogram based on the signature and clinical features of LUAD was correspondingly constructed. Associations of the lncRNA signature with immunotherapy response and drug sensitivity were explored. Last, mRNA expression of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs in LUAD was verified by qRT-PCR. Results: Four cuproptosis-relatedlncRNAs signature was established and identified as independently prognostic for overall survival of LUAD. In addition, the signature could well differentiate between patients with different responses to immunotherapy. Finally, candidate compounds targeting the signature were identified. Conclusion: Cuproptosis-related lncRNAs signature is expected to be used in clinic in prediction of survival and immunotherapy outcomes in LUAD patients.