Transcriptome profiling-based evidences reiterate the intrinsic role of MAPKAPK2 in facilitating molecular crosstalk during HNSCC pathogenesis

Background Transcriptomic profiling has been pivotal in better comprehending the convoluted biology of tumors including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Recently, mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase-2 (MAPKAPK2/MK2) has been implicated in many human diseases including tumors. We recently reported that MK2 is a critical regulator of HNSCC and functions via modulating the transcript turnover of crucial genes involved in HNSCC pathogenesis. Consequently, to expand our insight into the biological relevance of MK2 and intricate cross-talks in tumor milieu, we conceptualized a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of HNSCC.

Results We performed an extensive transcriptomic profiling to ascertain global patterns of gene expression in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models of HNSCC which exquisitely emulates the tumor microenvironment. Transcriptomic characterization substantiated an intrinsic role of MK2 and certain MK2-regulated genes in HNSCC pathogenesis, an outcome that reiterates our recent findings. Annotation and differential gene expression analysis revealed candidate genes whilst pathway enrichment analysis corroborated the biological significance of findings. Furthermore, advanced gene expression assays through nCounter system (primary validation) in conjunction with immunohistochemical analysis (secondary validation) validated the transcriptome profiling outcomes quite robustly.

Conclusions Our results have underpinned the importance of seven differentially expressed MK2-regulated genes which are constitutively involved in HNSCC pathogenesis and could serve as potential candidates for future endeavors pertaining to therapeutic interventions and diagnosis pertaining to HNSCC. Collectively, our findings have paved the way towards the identification and development of new effective tumor markers and potential molecular targets for HNSCC management and improved clinical outcomes.