Comprehensive analysis to identify the RP11–478C19.2/ E2F7 axis as a novel biomarker for treatment decisions in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

•LncRNA RP11–478C19.2 promotes the progression of ccRCC via the RP11–478C19.2/hsa-miR-181b-5p, hsa-miR-181a-5p, hsa-miR-181c-5p/E2F7 axis.•E2F7 could be detected in patients with ccRCC to aid treatment regimen selection, particularly in advanced and metastatic disease.•Individuals who overexpress E2F7 may have a greater response to some first-line therapy for ccRCC, including cabozantinib, pazopanib, and sunitinib.•Patients with higher expression of E2F7 may have a higher percentage of ICB responses.