CMTM6 overexpresses in ovarian cancer and associated with tumor cell progression and stabilization of PD-L1 protein

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal female genital cancer worldwide. Most patients exhibit resistance to immunotherapy. CMTM6 has been implicated in various tumorigenic processes and immune regulation. This study aims to investigate the role of CMTM6 in OC progression and its function in immunity. We utilized the GEPIA and GTBA databases to analyze the relationships among OC, CMTM6, and PD-L1. The role of CMTM6 in OC was further examined through immunohistochemical analysis of patient tumor tissues and extensive cancer cell experiments using the SKOV3 cell line. Finally, we explored the impact of CMTM6 on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and PD-L1 expression. Analysis of the GEPIA database revealed significantly higher expression of CMTM6 in OC tissues, although it was not correlated with patient survival time. The GTBA database showed a consistent expression trend between CMTM6 and PD-L1 (CD274). Inhibition of CMTM6 mRNA in SKOV3 cells led to a reduction in their proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities. Additionally, CMTM6 promoted EMT in SKOV3 cells and maintained PD-L1 protein expression. This study found elevated CMTM6 expression in OC tissues. CMTM6 enhances the proliferation, migration, and EMT capabilities of cancer cells and may serve as a regulator to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy.