Multi-omics analysis identifies stemness-driven molecular subtypes, prognostic signature, epigenetic target APCDD1, and drug candidate Leflunomide in Wilms tumor - Report - MDSpire

Multi-omics analysis identifies stemness-driven molecular subtypes, prognostic signature, epigenetic target APCDD1, and drug candidate Leflunomide in Wilms tumor

  • By

  • Huifang Du

  • Yifeng Zheng

  • Chentao Zhu

  • Yang Guo

  • Pengfei Li

  • Peng Hong

  • May 25, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Comprehensive Multi-Omics Investigation of Wilms Tumor

Overview

This study identifies distinct molecular subtypes of Wilms tumor (WT) related to stemness and prognosis, revealing APCDD1 as an epigenetic target and Leflunomide as a potential therapeutic agent. The findings enhance understanding of WT biology and propose actionable insights for risk stratification.

Background

Wilms tumor is the most prevalent pediatric renal malignancy, with a significant proportion of patients facing refractory disease and poor long-term survival. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of WT is essential for improving treatment strategies and outcomes. This study employs multi-omics approaches to elucidate the role of stemness in WT and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Blastemal cells in WT exhibit the highest stemness score, correlating with worse prognosis.
  • WT samples were stratified into two molecular subtypes (C1 and C2) based on stemness-related genes.
  • The C1 subtype is characterized by higher stemness and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
  • APCDD1 acts as a tumor suppressor, with its expression restored by the demethylating agent Decitabine.
  • Leflunomide demonstrated significant inhibition of WT cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro.
  • A robust prognostic risk signature was developed using Lasso-Cox regression analysis.

Clinical Implications

The identification of distinct molecular subtypes and prognostic indicators in WT can guide risk stratification and treatment decisions. The potential use of Leflunomide may offer a new therapeutic strategy for high-risk WT patients.

Conclusion

This comprehensive investigation into the molecular landscape of Wilms tumor provides critical insights into its biology and highlights APCDD1 and Leflunomide as key targets for future research and clinical application.

Related Resources & Content

  1. The ASCO Post, 2015 -- Intensified Therapy Improves Survival in Wilms Tumor Patients With Rare Genetic Abnormality
  2. The ASCO Post, 2015 -- Expert Point of View: Alison M. Friedmann, MD
  3. Frontiers in Oncology -- BRAF V600E-mutated metastatic Wilms tumor with complete response to targeted RAF/MEK inhibition: a post-treatment follow-up case report
  4. Wilms Tumor, Version 2.2025, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines In Oncology - PubMed
  5. Acta Neuropathologica — Alterations in TP53 and OTX2 Genes Suggest Higher Relapse Risk in WNT Medulloblastoma Cases
  6. Wilms Tumor, Version 2.2025, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines In Oncology - PubMed
  7. Impact of Pulmonary Tumor Burden in Favorable Histology Wilms Tumor Outcomes: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group Study AREN0533 | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  8. Methylation changes and INS-IGF2 expression predict progression in early-stage Wilms tumor | Clinical Epigenetics | Full Text

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