Unveiling prognostic genes and regulatory mechanisms of exosome in prostate cancer: an integrated analysis of bulk transcriptomics and single-cell RNA sequencing data

ObjectiveProstate cancer (PCa) constitutes a considerable public health concern worldwide, primarily attributable to its elevated mortality rates. Changes in exosome are shown to significantly influence tumor development. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of exosome-related genes (ERGs) in PCa. MethodsPCa single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and transcriptome datasets were obtained from public databases, with ERGs extracted from existing literature. Candidate genes were identified by overlapping 6,004 PCa-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 121 ERGs. Multiple algorithms screened prognostic genes to construct and validate a risk model. Function enrichment, immune infiltration, and drug sensitivity analyses were performed for high/low-risk groups, while scRNA-seq determined cell types via prognostic genes. ResultsA sum of 36 candidate genes was discovered at the intersection of 6,004 DEGs and 121 ERGs. NOC2L, RPS10, POSTN, and BIRC5 were selected as the prognostic genes. The survival status of PCa patients was effectively predicted by a risk model. The majority of pathways identified as significantly enriched between the 2 groups were related to cellular functions. Additionally, 7 differential immune cell types were identified between the 2 groups. RPS10 demonstrated the most significant negative correlation with immature dendritic cells. Chemotherapy drugs were more effective for PCa patients classified as low-risk group. Finally, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and T cells were considered as key cells and played a critical role in PCa. ConclusionNOC2L, RPS10, POSTN, and BIRC5 were identified associated with exosome in PCa, providing a strong reference for exosome mechanisms in PCa.