The expression of canopy FGF signaling regulator 2 serves as a diagnostic and prognostic indicator for NSCLC

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. The identification of new biomarkers is crucial for enhancing early detection and treatment outcomes. This study explores the role of Canopy FGF Signaling Regulator 2 (CNPY2) in NSCLC progression and its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.

Methods

CNPY2 expression was analyzed in 228 NSCLC tumor samples and adjacent normal tissues using quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA. Serum CNPY2 levels were also measured in 160 healthy controls and NSCLC patients. The relationship between CNPY2 expression and clinicopathological features, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, was assessed. Receiver operator curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic potential of serum CNPY2, while Kaplan-Meier survival analysis assessed its prognostic significance.

Results

CNPY2 levels were significantly elevated in NSCLC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. Higher CNPY2 expression was associated with larger tumor size, advanced T stage, and higher N stage. Furthermore, CNPY2 expression was positively correlated with Vimentin and N-cadherin, and negatively correlated with E-cadherin. Elevated serum CNPY2 levels in NSCLC patients demonstrated moderate diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.78. High CNPY2 expression was also linked to reduced overall survival (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

CNPY2 is markedly overexpressed in NSCLC and is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and EMT. Serum CNPY2 shows promise as a non-invasive biomarker for NSCLC diagnosis, and elevated expression is correlated with a poorer prognosis. Thus, CNPY2 may serve as both a valuable biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in NSCLC.