Exploring the role of lactylation-related genes in osteosarcoma: A deep dive into prognostic significance and therapeutic potential

Osteosarcoma (OS), notorious for its complex pathogenesis and formidable prognosis, represents a significant medical quandary. This research embarked on a quest to unravel the implications of lactylation-related genes (LRGs) in OS, offering a novel lens through which to interpret its intricacies. A meticulous evaluation of 329 LRGs within the TARGET dataset spotlighted 27 paramount genes, intricately intertwined with survival. These genes highlighted metabolic processes-particularly amino acid metabolism-as key players, as evidenced in both GO and KEGG analyses. Utilizing consensus clustering and principal component analysis, the 93 OS samples were segmented into two distinct groups, differing notably in overall and event-free survival. Cluster 2 demonstrated a heightened immune response, contrasting the other cluster. Machine learning techniques, like generalized boosted model, CoxBoost, and RSF, spotlighted MYC and GOT2 as critical genes. Using multivariate Cox regression, a risk model was developed, categorizing patients into high and low-risk groups, each displaying varied survival patterns. Additionally, a contrast was observed between MYC and GOT2's associations with HLA molecules, emphasizing their distinct roles in antigen presentation. Potential therapeutic avenues were identified for each risk group, with special attention to mutations in MYC, particularly amplifications, hinting at its role in tumor progression. Finally, delving deeper into the role of MYC, Western blot analyses exhibited amplified myc protein levels in OS cells U-2 and MG-63 when juxtaposed against human osteoblastic cells Hfob1.19. A focused knockdown of myc in OS cells subsequently confirmed its influence on cell proliferation and migration, with reduced myc expression resulting in inhibited cell activities. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assays corroborated myc's heightened expression in OS cells relative to normal osteoblastic cells. In summary, this study accentuates the vital role of LRGs and specifically MYC in OS, ushering in a horizon of tailored therapeutic strategies.