A SARS-CoV-2-related signature that explores the tumor microenvironment and predicts immunotherapy response in esophageal squamous cell cancer

Background: The existing therapeutic approaches for combating tumors are insufficient in completely eradicating malignancy, as cancer facilitates tumor relapse and develops resistance to treatment interventions. The potential mechanistic connection between SARS-CoV-2 and ESCC has received limited attention. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2-related-genes (SCRGs) in esophageal squamous cancer (ESCC). Methods: Raw data were obtained from the TCGA and GEO databases. Clustering of SCRGs from the scRNA-seq data was conducted using the Seurat R package. A risk signature was then generated using Lasso regression, incorporating prognostic genes related to SCRGs. Subsequently, a nomogram model was developed based on the clinicopathological characteristics and the risk signature. Results: Eight clusters of SCRGs were identified in ESCC utilizing scRNA-seq data, of which three exhibited prognostic implications. A risk signature was then made up with bulk RNA-seq, which displayed substantial correlations with immune infiltration. The novel signature was verified to have excellent prognostic efficacy. Conclusion: The utilization of risk signatures based on SCRGs can efficiently forecast the prognosis of ESCC. A thorough characterization of the SCRGs signature in ESCC could facilitate the interpretation of ESCC's response to immunotherapy and offer innovative approaches to cancer therapy.