Work

Integrated analysis and experimental validation of E2F2 as a potential prognostic biomarker and its oncogenic roles in serous ovarian cancer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background This study evaluated the prognostic role of E2F transcription factor 2 (E2F2) in serous ovarian cancers (SOCs) and explored its biological functions, immune cell infiltration links, and therapeutic implications. Methods Integrating TCGA/Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) data, we used bioinformatics tools (ssGSEA, Immunophenoscore, and oncoPredict) to analyze pathways and treatment responses. Validation involved RT-qPCR, Western blot analysis, cytotoxicity, and transwell assays. Results E2F2 was upregulated in SOC tumors, correlating with poorer overall/disease-free survival and higher tumor grade. Five cell-cycle-related genes (ORC1, RAD54L, CCNF, NCAPH, and HASPIN) showed strong co-expression. A pathway analysis of 808 differentially expressed genes linked E2F2 to immune cell recruitment, including CD4+ T cells, NK cells, and Tregs; low E2F2 levels were associated with higher immune scores. High E2F2 predicted sensitivity to chemotherapy/targeted therapy, while low E2F2 correlated with anti-CTLA4 responsiveness. In vitro, E2F2 promoted metastasis. Conclusion High E2F2 expression marks poor prognosis and immune cell infiltration in SOCs and thus acts as an independent risk factor. It may serve as a potential biomarker for diagnosis, patient stratification, and guiding personalized therapy. Further research could enhance SOC management.

Source: Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences

DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2025.1661558

Authors: Fengyin Jiang, He Fei, Lina Yang, Rujun Chen, Liwen Zhang

Institutions: Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Fudan University

Language: English

Topic: Ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801