To investigate the role of efferocytosis-related genes (ERGs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) progression, with a specific focus on ADAM9 as a promising prognostic and therapeutic target due to its significant involvement in tumor biology.
Key Findings:
Eleven ERG signatures, including ADAM9, stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups with significant survival differences.
High ADAM9 expression correlated with immunosuppressive microenvironments characterized by increased M2 macrophages and neutrophils.
Single-cell analysis identified predominant enrichment of ADAM9 in M2 macrophage subsets.
ADAM9 silencing regulated efferocytosis and polarization in M2 macrophages, suppressing tumor cell proliferation and migration via the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Interpretation:
The study constructed a robust prognostic model based on ERG signatures, highlighting the oncogenic role of ADAM9 in promoting tumor progression and its potential implications for targeted therapies.
Limitations:
Conclusion:
ADAM9-driven efferocytosis is a critical determinant of immune evasion in lung cancer, offering a framework for developing personalized treatment strategies that target this pathway.
