MZB1 regulates the immune microenvironment and inhibits ovarian cancer cell migration.

Background: The immune microenvironment of ovarian cancer is crucial in its progression. Recent studies highlight the significant role of MZB1 in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), although its specific function in ovarian cancer remains unclear.

Materials and methods: We analyzed 381 ovarian cancer samples from the TCGA database, along with additional samples from GEO and single-cell datasets. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using DESeq2. Various algorithms were applied to assess the relationship between MZB1 and the TIME. Cell proliferation was measured using the CCK-8 assay, while cell migration was evaluated using the wound healing assay. Furthermore, a nomogram predicting overall survival was developed based on multivariable Cox regression results.

Results: Our results indicated a positive correlation between high MZB1 expression and improved clinical prognosis. Additionally, higher MZB1 expression was linked to increased immune cell infiltration within the TIME. Elevated MZB1 levels inhibited the migration and proliferation of SKOV3 cells. The nomogram's C-index was 0.702, and its calibration curve demonstrated good calibration, indicating satisfactory discrimination and accuracy in predicting patient outcomes.

Conclusions: This study comprehensively analyzes MZB1's role in the TIME of ovarian cancer. MZB1 is a promising prognostic marker and a potential target for personalized treatment.