A Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis of the Mitochondrial Uncoupling Protein UCP2, with a Focus on Sex and Gender-Related Aspects

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) plays a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress and cellular metabolism, positioning it as an important subject in oncological research. The involvement of UCP2 in cancer is complex and context-dependent, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target. In this study, we aimed to perform a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of UCP2, with a particular focus on gender-related malignancies such as breast (BRCA), prostate (PRAD), ovarian (OV), and testicular tumors (TGCT). METHODS: We analyzed UCP2 expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), examining correlations with prognosis, tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, genes involved in steroidogenesis, sex hormone receptor genes, and drug sensitivity. RESULTS: Significant variability in UCP2 expression was observed across cancer types. UCP2 levels were elevated in BRCA and OV but reduced in PRAD and T...