Revealing the potential of necroptosis-related genes in prognosis, immune characteristics, and treatment strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

ABSTRACT

Necroptosis is a recently discovered apoptotic mechanism that has been linked to tumor formation, prognosis, and treatment response. However, the relationship between the TME and NRGs remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the expression patterns of NRGs in 769 HNSCC cases from two distinct data sets. Our findings revealed distinct genetic groups and a correlation between patient clinical features, prognosis, TME cell infiltration characteristics, and NRG alterations. We then developed an NRG model to predict OS and confirmed its accuracy in predicting OS in HNSCC patients. Moreover, we have devised a precise nomogram that enhances the clinical utility of the NRG model substantially. The low-risk group had a better OS, and they were associated with immune suppression, more mutated genes, and higher TIDE scores. The risk score also had a significant correlation with the CSC index and susceptibility to anti-tumor agents. Our study provides insights into how NRGs affect prognosis, clinically significant features, TME, and immunotherapy response in HNSCC. With a better knowledge of NRGs in HNSCC, we could assess the prognosis and develop immunotherapy regimens that are more successful at opening up new doors.