Identification of key genes potentially associated with bladder cancer development by common plasticizers: an integrated transcriptomics and network toxicology study - Report - MDSpire

Identification of key genes potentially associated with bladder cancer development by common plasticizers: an integrated transcriptomics and network toxicology study

  • By

  • Qiuqiu Zhang

  • Kailiang Xu

  • Zhongjun Chen

  • Zihui Li

  • Dong Zhao

  • July 1, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Clinical Report: Exploration of Critical Genes Linked to Bladder Cancer Progression

Overview

This study identifies five critical genes associated with bladder cancer (BCa) progression potentially linked to plasticizer exposure.

Background

Bladder cancer is a significant global health concern, with high incidence and mortality rates. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying BCa is crucial for developing effective treatments. Recent studies have raised concerns about environmental factors, such as plasticizers, in BCa pathogenesis.

Data Highlights

The study identified 4,642 differentially expressed genes, 225 plasticizer-related genes (PRGs), and 196 bladder cancer-related target genes (BCRTGs). Five key genes were highlighted: CCNE1, KIT, BCL2, TGFBR2, and FASN, with varying expression levels in BCa cells compared to normal cells.

Key Findings

  • Identification of 4,642 differentially expressed genes related to BCa.
  • Seven candidate genes were identified from 225 PRGs and 196 BCRTGs.
  • Key genes CCNE1 and FASN showed elevated expression, while KIT, BCL2, and TGFBR2 were reduced in BCa cells.
  • Gene set enrichment analysis revealed co-enrichment in cell cycle regulation pathways.
  • Molecular docking indicated favorable binding affinities between key genes and plasticizers.
  • Dysregulated immune cell infiltration levels were observed in BCa.

Clinical Implications

Further research is needed to explore the implications of plasticizer exposure in BCa management.

Conclusion

This study identifies key genes that may play a role in tumorigenesis related to plasticizers.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  2. Author(s)/Org, Archives of Toxicology, 2023 -- Effects of Plastic-Derived Compounds on Gene Expression Profiles in CYP3A4 Transfected HepG2 Cells
  3. Author(s)/Org, Archives of Toxicology, 2025 -- Identification of functional genetic components modulating toxicity response to PFOS using genome-wide CRISPR screens in HepG2/C3A cells
  4. Author(s)/Org, Investigation of genomic alterations in bladder cancer stem cells highlights the prognostic significance of LRP1B, 2022
  5. Epidemiology and aetiology, 2023 -- Guidelines and consensus on bladder cancer risk factors
  6. Enfortumab Vedotin/Pembrolizumab Maintains OS Benefit in Urothelial Carcinoma | CancerNetwork, 2024
  7. Diagnosis and Treatment of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: AUA/SUO Guideline: 2024 Amendment | Journal of Urology
  8. Epidemiology and aetiology
  9. Enfortumab Vedotin/Pembrolizumab Maintains OS Benefit in Urothelial Carcinoma | CancerNetwork
  10. Diagnosis and Treatment of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: AUA/SUO Guideline: 2024 Amendment | Journal of Urology

Original Source(s)

Related Content