# Integrative Genomic and Functional Approaches Identify FUOM as a Key Driver and Therapeutic Target in Cervical Cancer

## TL;DR

This study identifies the gene FUOM as a key driver in cervical cancer and shows that targeting it could reduce cancer cell growth and spread.

## Contribution

The study introduces FUOM as a novel therapeutic target in cervical cancer using integrative genomic and functional approaches.

## Key findings

- FUOM knockdown reduced cell proliferation by 37%, migration by 43%, and colony formation by 62%.
- eQTL-related genes were enriched in pathways like Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 signaling.
- scRNA-seq revealed cell-specific expression patterns and immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment.

## Abstract

Cervical cancer remains a global public health challenge, particularly in regions with limited access to screening and vaccination. While high‐risk HPV infection is the primary cause, the genetic and molecular mechanisms driving cervical cancer progression are not fully understood.

This study integrates Mendelian randomization (MR) and single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) to identify causal eQTL‐related genes and explore their roles in tumorigenesis. Functional experiments were conducted to validate key findings.

MR analysis identified eQTL‐related genes with significant causal associations with cervical cancer. Functional enrichment and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) revealed their involvement in key pathways. scRNA‐seq explored cell‐specific expression patterns and immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In vitro experiments, including qRT‐PCR, siRNA knockdown, migration, proliferation, and colony formation assays, validated the biological roles of pivotal genes.

A total of 307 eQTL‐related genes were identified, enriched in pathways such as Th17 cell differentiation, TNF, and IL‐17 signaling. scRNA‐seq revealed cell‐specific expression of key genes, including FUOM, which was elevated in cervical cancer cells. FUOM knockdown significantly reduced cell proliferation (by 37%, p < 0.001), migration (by 43%, p < 0.001), and colony formation (by 62%, p < 0.001). Regulatory analysis identified miRNAs as upstream modulators of these genes.

This study identifies FUOM as a novel driver gene in cervical cancer progression and highlights its role in tumorigenesis and immune modulation. These findings provide insights into potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets, offering a foundation for personalized treatment strategies.