Comprehensive Multi-Omics Analysis of Copper Metabolism Related Molecular Subtypes and Prognostic Risk Stratification in Colon Adenocarcinoma

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the most common subtype of colorectal cancer, originating from glandular cells in the colon. Despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances, its prognosis remains poor. Copper, an essential micronutrient, is involved in tumorigenesis and other biological processes. In this study, we identified copper metabolism-related genes (CMRG) associated with COAD prognosis from TCGA and GEO databases and constructed a CMRG-based risk model. We assessed its clinical relevance through analyses of immune infiltration, immunotherapy response, and drug sensitivity. Single-cell sequencing revealed the spatial and cellular distribution of CMRG in COAD tissues, providing insight into their roles in the tumour microenvironment. COX19 was selected for further validation, and in vitro experiments (western blot, PCR, siRNA, colony formation, and Transwell assays) confirmed its role in promoting COAD cell invasion and proliferation. These findings highlight the involvement of copper metabolism in COAD progression and suggest potential targets for therapy.