The predictive significance of chromobox family members in prostate cancer in humans

Abstract Purpose The Chromobox (CBX) family proteins are crucial elements of the epigenetic regulatory machinery and play a significant role in the development and advancement of cancer. Nevertheless, there is limited understanding regarding the role of CBXs in development or progression of prostate cancer (PCa). Our objective is to develop a unique prognostic model associated with CBXs to improve the accuracy of predicting outcomes of patients with PCa. Methods Transcriptome sequencing and clinical data for PCa were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. The data was then analyzed to identify differential expression, assess prognostic value, determine gene pathway enrichment, and evaluate immune cell infiltration. COX regression analysis was utilized to identify the independent prognostic factors that impact disease-free survival (DFS) in PCa, and subsequently, a nomogram was created. In vitro proliferation, migration and invasion assay were conducted to examine the function of CBX2 in PCa. Results CBX2, CBX3, CBX4, and CBX8 were upregulated, whereas CBX6 and CBX7 were downregulated in PCa tumor tissues. The expression level of these genes differs depending on the cancer's stage and grade. A negative outcome is associated with patients who have elevated levels of CBX1, CBX2, CBX3, CBX4 and CBX8 expression. An independent prognostic factors for PCa were the expression level of CBX2 and T stage, as well as Gleason score, as determined by Cox regression analysis. Additionally, a nomogram was created. The infiltration level of various immune cells is associated with the expression level of CBX2. In vitro studies have shown that the knockdown of CBX2 can greatly impede the growth, migration and invasion of PCa cells. Conclusion CBX2 is involved in the development and advancement of PCa, suggesting its potential as a reliable prognostic indicator for PCa patients.