Introducing novel key genes and transcription factors associated with rectal cancer response to chemoradiation through Co-expression network analysis

Preoperative radiochemotherapy is a promising therapeutic method for locally advanced rectal cancer patients. However, the response of colorectal (CRC) patients to preoperative radiotherapy varies widely. In this study, we aimed identify novel biomarkers that could predict tumors treatment using systems biology approach. We applied Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis construct co-expression networks and evaluated correlation these with radiation module-trait relationship. then identified hub genes related transcription factors in selected module.Our analysis seven constructed modules revealed one module, which contained 113 nodes 6066 edges, had strongest effects on CRC (correlation = 0.85; p-value 6e-7). By analyzing module CytoHubba plugin, four genes, including ZEB2, JAM2, NDN, PPAP2A. also important factors, KLF4, SUZ12, TCF4, NANOG, POU5F1, SOX2, SMARCA4, may play essential roles regulating genes.In summary, our findings suggest PPAP2A, along be associated chemoradiotherapy.