Multi-omics analysis of expression profile and prognostic values of connexin family in LUAD

Purpose Our study first explored the expression differences and prognostic significance of Cx genes in pan-cancer and then focused on LUAD. Our objectives were to conducted a comprehensive analysis of the expression profile, prognostic significance, genetic alterations, potential biological functions and drug sensitivity of the Connexin gene family in LUAD. Methods We developed a comprehensive prognostic model for LUAD by combining risk scores with clinical features and created a nomogram to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival. Using single-cell sequencing, we examined the expression and biological functions of the identified prognostic markers. Results Our risk model revealed that GJB2-5 play a critical role in the prognosis of LUAD patients, associated with many biological processes such as cell cycle, DNA damage, EMT, hypoxia, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the connexin gene family is linked to transcriptional mechanisms such as the extracellular matrix (ECM), migration, mobility, angiogenesis, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) genetic program. Conclusion The risk model can be used as a potential prognostic factor for LUAD patients and may provide new insights into cancer treatment from perspective of the expression of Cx genes.