Loss of HLA-class-I expression in non-small-cell lung cancer: Association with prognosis and anaerobic metabolism

•Extensive loss of HLA-class-I expression is noted in 64.8% of NSCLCs.•Loss of HLA-class-I is linked with poor CD8 + lymphocytic infiltration of tumors.•Markers of anaerobic metabolism, like LDH5 and HIF1α relate to HLA-class-I loss.•Exposure of lung cancer cell lines to hypoxia or acidity down-regulates HLAs.•Loss of HLA-class-I expression defines poor prognosis, independently of stage.