Scientists have identified three immune-related genes that could help predict how aggressive skin melanoma becomes and how well patients might respond to treatment.
In a new study, researchers investigated the roles of LAG-3, TIGIT, and HAVCR2 in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), a deadly form of skin cancer. While advances in immunotherapy have transformed treatment, resistance and side effects remain challenges, prompting a search for new targets.
Using large-scale bioinformatic analyses, researchers found LAG-3, TIGIT, and HAVCR2 were significantly overexpressed in melanoma tissue compared to normal skin, with even higher levels in metastatic tumors.
Surprisingly, higher expression of LAG-3 or TIGIT was associated with improved overall survival, even after adjusting for patient factors. HAVCR2 also showed a link to survival but did not retain independent prognostic significance.
Tumors with high expression of these genes also showed increased immune cell infiltration, suggesting a more active anti-tumor immune response. These findings highlight LAG-3 and TIGIT as potential prognostic biomarkers and future immunotherapy targets. Further clinical studies are needed to explore combination therapies.