Acyl-CoA Thioesterase 8 (ACOT8) is a Poor Prognostic Biomarker in Breast Cancer.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the expression of Acyl-CoA thioesterase 8 (ACOT8) in breast cancer (BC) and its association with clinicopathological characteristics, patient survival, and immune infiltration.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of ACOT8 mRNA differential expression across various cancer types, followed by survival analysis. We focused on BC, where ACOT8 expression was evaluated at both the mRNA and protein levels using online databases, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Associations between ACOT8 expression and clinicopathological parameters were assessed using different databases. Additionally, we investigated the prognostic significance of ACOT8 in BC patients by analyzing various cohorts and databases. Furthermore, we predicted a potential signaling pathway and identified miR-1-3p as a possible upstream regulator of ACOT8. Finally, the relationship between ACOT8 and immune system infiltration, as well as immune checkpoint molecules, was examined.

Results: Our findings demonstrated upregulated ACOT8 mRNA and protein levels in BC. Elevated ACOT8 expression correlated positively with various clinicopathological characteristics, indicating an unfavorable prognosis for patients. Functional enrichment analysis suggested ACOT8 involvement in lipid metabolism, mitochondrial components, and ribosomal functions. Moreover, we identified connections between ACOT8 and immune system markers, immune cell infiltration, and immune checkpoints.

Conclusion: This study provides compelling evidence for ACOT8 upregulation in BC and its association with clinicopathological features and patient outcomes. Additionally, our findings suggest that targeting ACOT8 and immune checkpoints might enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy in BC patients.