DOCK9 as a predictive biomarker linked to angiogenesis and immune response in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a serious health concern due to its high prevalence and mortality rates. Identifying prognostic biomarkers is essential to improving patient outcomes and treatment strategies. DOCK9, a gene implicated in various cellular functions, may play a significant role in ESCC progression and prognosis. We analyzed RNA microarray datasets and single-cell RNA sequencing data to identify survival-associated genes in ESCC. Using protein expression analysis, we examined DOCK9 in ESCC tissues and assessed its functional impact on human umbilical vein endothelial cells to understand its role in angiogenesis. Additionally, we developed a 21-gene prognostic risk model, focusing on the relevance of DOCK9. Our findings revealed that DOCK9 expression is significantly reduced in ESCC tissues and correlates with poor survival outcomes. Functionally, DOCK9 was found to regulate angiogenesis and modulate the tumor-associated fibroblast environment in ESCC. Furthermore, the DOCK9/CD31 ratio emerged as a potential marker to predict immune therapy response in ESCC. DOCK9 serves as a prognostic biomarker in ESCC, influencing both angiogenesis and immune response, and could guide future therapeutic strategies, particularly in immunotherapy. This study highlights DOCK9's relevance in ESCC prognosis, supporting its potential role in tailored therapies aimed at angiogenesis and immune modulation.