Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing analysis identifies a neoadjuvant chemotherapy-related gene signature for predicting survival and therapy in breast cancer

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is a well-established treatment modality for locally advanced breast cancer (BC). However, it can also result in severe toxicities while controlling tumors. Therefore, reliable predictive biomarkers are urgently needed to objectively and accurately predict NAC response. In this study, we integrated single-cell and bulk RNA-seq data to identify nine genes associated with the prognostic response to NAC: NDRG1, CXCL14, HOXB2, NAT1, EVL, FBP1, MAGED2, AR and CIRBP. Furthermore, we constructed a prognostic risk model specifically linked to NAC. The clinical independence and generalizability of this model were effectively demonstrated. Additionally, we explore the underlying cancer hallmarks and microenvironment features of this NAC response-related risk score, and further assess the potential impact of risk score on drug response. In summary, our study constructed and validated a nine-gene signature associated with NAC prognosis, which was accomplished through the integration of single-cell and bulk RNA data. The results of our study are of crucial significance in the prediction of the efficacy of NAC in BC, and may have implications for the clinical management of this disease. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-023-01727-0.