DPP2/7 is a Potential Predictor of Prognosis and Target in Immunotherapy in Colorectal Cancer: An Integrative Multi-omics Analysis

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the leading causes of cancerrelated deaths. Objective: This study aimed to illuminate the relationship between DPP7 (also known as DPP2) and CRC through a combination of bioinformatics and experimental methodologies. Methods: A multi-dimensional bioinformatic analysis on DPP7 was executed, covering its expression, survival implications, clinical associations, functional roles, immune interactions, and drug sensitivities. Experimental validations involved siRNA-mediated DPP7 knockdown and various cellular assays. Results: Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) identified high DPP7 expression in solid CRC tumors, with elevated levels adversely affecting patient prognosis. A shift from the N0 to the N2 stage in CRC was associated with increased DPP7 expression. Functional insights indicated the involvement of DPP7 in cancer progression, particularly in extracellular matrix disassembly. Immunological analyses showed its association with immunosuppressive entities, and in vitro experiments in CRC cell lines underscored its oncogenic attributes. Conclusion: DPP7 could serve as a CRC prognosis marker, functioning as an oncogene and representing a potential immunotherapeutic target.