Identification of enhancer RNAs for the prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Head Neck. 2021 Dec;43(12):3820-3831. doi: 10.1002/hed.26877. Epub 2021 Sep 27.

Abstract

Background: Enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) play an important role in carcinogenesis. The landscape of eRNAs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains largely unknown.

Methods: The eRNA expression matrix was obtained from the enhancer RNA in the cancer database. Functional enrichment analyses were performed using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Prognostic eRNAs were identified using Cox regression analysis, and a prognostic prediction model was constructed based on coefficients.

Results: KEGG analysis showed that eRNA-related transcription factors were mainly enriched in herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) infection. The zinc finger (ZNF) family may play an essential role in HNSCC. ENSR00000188847, ENSR00000250663, ENSR00000313345, ENSR00000317887, and ENSR00000336429 were identified. The prediction model was robust.

Conclusions: We constructed a robust 5-eRNA prognostic prediction model, and these eRNAs are potential biomarkers for HNSCC prognosis.

Keywords: enhancer RNA; head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; herpes simplex virus 1; prognosis; zinc finger.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • RNA
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck / genetics

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • RNA