The prognostic values of m6A RNA methylation regulators in Uveal melanoma

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this study were to identify gene signatures and prognostic values of m6A methylation regulators in uveal melanoma (UM). Methods The RNA sequencing dataset and corresponding clinical information were downloaded from TCGA and GEO database. Based on the expression of m6A RNA methylation regulators, the patients were further clustered into different groups by applying the “ClassDiscovery” algorithm. Survival analysis was performed using log-rank tests and LASSO regression model. The association between mutations and m6A regulators was assessed by student t tests and clinical characteristics was examined by using chi-square test. Result Totally, we identified two molecular subtypes of UM (C1/2) by applying consensus clustering to m6A RNA methylation regulators. Contrasted to the C1 subtype, the C2 subtype associates with a better prognosis, longer survival time and lower percentage of Monosomy 3. The malignant hallmarks of mTORC1 signaling, oxidative phosphorylation, interferon-a response and apoptosis signaling are also significantly enriched in the C1 subtype. Moreover, a 2-m6A regulators signature was screened out by LASSO method, which can robustly predict UM patients survival. Conclusions m6A RNA methylation regulators take a crucial role in the potential malignant progression and prognostic value of UM and might be regarded as a new promising biomarker for UM prognosis and treatment strategy development.