PTPN12 is a novel biomarker associated with genomic instability, therapeutic potentials, and immunomodulator in colorectal cancer

Background Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 12 (PTPN12), a crucial enzymatic protein involved in cellular signaling, remains understudied in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study investigates this biological macromolecule’s potential as a biomarker, examining its protein-protein interactions, therapeutic relevance, and immunomodulatory functions in CRC. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of PTPN12 using public datasets and clinical samples. Bioinformatics tools were employed to predict regulators and signaling pathways associated with PTPN12. Immune infiltration analysis and re-analysis of publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets were performed to explore the immunomodulatory role of PTPN12. The relationship between PTPN12 protein levels and drug susceptibility was evaluated. Functional assays validated PTPN12’s role in CRC cells and its impact on oxaliplatin resistance. Results PTPN12 protein is significantly upregulated in CRC tissues, with its elevated expression correlating with poor prognosis. PTPN12 correlates with increased genomic instability. PTPN12 is involved in various biological processes, including the regulation of cellular and developmental processes. Furthermore, high PTPN12 expression is positively correlated with stromal cell infiltration, suggesting a potential role in modulating the immune response. These findings collectively suggest that PTPN12 may have potential as a therapeutic candidate and immunotherapy-related biomarker. Knockdown of PTPN12 inhibited CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Notably, PTPN12 protein was overexpressed in oxaliplatin-resistant CRC cells, and its inhibition restored chemosensitivity in in vitro models.​ Conclusion PTPN12 shows promise as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target candidate in CRC. Our study provides preliminary insights into the role of PTPN12 in CRC pathogenesis, treatment response, and chemoresistance, which may lay the groundwork for future development of personalized therapeutic strategies pending further in vivo validation.