Aim and Objective:
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most prevalent
type of cancer with worldwide distribution and dismal prognosis despite ongoing efforts to
improve treatment options. Therefore, it is essential to determine the prognostic factors for ESCC.
Methods and Results:
We determined KLRB1 to be a prognostic indicator of human ESCC.
KLRB1 was expressed at low levels in ESCC patients. Based on the risk score, patients were
divided into high and low-risk groups. High-risk patients showed a poor survival rate. The
prediction model based on the N stage, sex, and KLRB1 was significantly better than that based on
the N stage and sex. The modified prediction model showed a robust ROC curve with an AUC
value of 0.973. The knockdown of KLRB1 inhibited the growth of human ESCC cells. KLRB1
regulated Akt, mTOR, p27, p38, NF-κB, Cyclin D1, and JNK signaling, which was consistent with
the result of GSEA.
Conclusion:
KLRB1 is a potential prognostic marker for human ESCC patients.
Lymphovascular invasion as an independent prognostic indicator in radically resected thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma