Constructing a personalized prognostic risk model for colorectal cancer using machine learning and multi-omics approach based on epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes

The progression and the metastatic potential of colorectal cancer (CRC) are intricately linked to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. The present study harnesses the power of machine learning combined with multi-omics data to develop a risk stratification model anchored on EMT-associated genes. The aim is to facilitate personalized prognostic assessments in CRC. We utilized publicly accessible gene expression datasets to pinpoint EMT-associated genes, employing a CoxBoost algorithm to sift through these genes for prognostic significance. The resultant model, predicated on gene expression levels, underwent rigorous independent validation across various datasets. Our model demonstrated a robust capacity to segregate CRC patients into distinct high- and low-risk categories, each correlating with markedly different survival probabilities. Notably, the risk score emerged as an independent prognostic indicator for CRC. High-risk patients were characterized by an immunosuppressive tumor milieu and a heightened responsiveness to certain chemotherapeutic agents, underlining the model's potential in steering tailored oncological therapies. Moreover, our research unearthed a putative repressive interaction between the long non-coding RNA PVT1 and the EMT-associated genes TIMP1 and MMP1, offering new insights into the molecular intricacies of CRC. In essence, our research introduces a sophisticated risk model, leveraging machine learning and multi-omics insights, which accurately prognosticates outcomes for CRC patients, paving the way for more individualized and effective oncological treatment paradigms. A computer analyzing gene expression data for colorectal cancer (CRC), identifying epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) associated genes, is illustrated. Two distinct patient groups are depicted: one with high-risk CRC featuring an immunosuppressive tumor environment and another with low-risk CRC having better survival prospects. The image also includes a representation of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) PVT1 interacting with TIMP1 and MMP1 genes, highlighting the study's novel insights into CRC molecular dynamics.image