Five long non-coding RNAs establish a prognostic nomogram and construct a competing endogenous RNA network in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND: Accumulating evidence has revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play vital roles in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). But the relationship between lncRNAs and survival outcome of NSCLC remains to be explored. Therefore, we attempt to figure out their survival roles and molecular connection in NSCLC. METHODS: By analyzing the transcriptome profiling of NSCLC from TCGA databases, we divided patients into three groups, and identified differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) of each group. Next, we explored the prognostic roles of common DELs by univariate and multivariate Cox analysis, Lasson, and Kaplan-Meier analysis. Additionally, we assessed and compared the prognostic accuracy of 5 lncRNAs through ROC curves and AUC values. Ultimately, we detected their potential function by enrichment analysis and molecular connection through establishing a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. RESULTS: One hundred ninety-seven common DELs were spotted. And we successfully screened out 5 lncRNAs related to the patient’s survival, including LINC01833, AC112206.2, FAM83A-AS1, BANCR, and HOTAIR. Combing with age and AJCC stage, we constructed a nomogram that prognostic prediction was superior to the traditional parameters. Furthermore, 275 qualified mRNAs related to 5 lncRNAs were spotted. Functional analysis indicates that these lncRNAs act key roles in the progression of NSCLC, such as P53 and cell cycle signaling pathway. And ceRNA network also suggests that these lncRNAs are tightly connected with tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS: A nomogram and ceRNA network based on 5 lncRNAs indicate that there can effectively predict the overall survival of NSCLC and potentially serve as a therapeutic guide for NSCLC. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08207-7.