Multi-modality analysis supports APOBEC as a major source of mutations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Objectives: The mutagenic processes underlying head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are poorly understood. Pan-cancer mutational signature analyses have identified a signature for APOBEC, a cytosine deaminase, in a subset of cancers, including HNSCC. The role of APOBEC activity in HNSCC remains poorly understood. Therefore, we sought to determine the role of APOBEC in HNSCC pathogenesis.

Material and methods: Utilizing bioinformatic approaches we explored the role of APOBEC mediated mutations in tumor exomes, transcriptomes and germline exomes from 511HNSCC patients in the TCGA.

Results: 58% of HNSCC were statistically enriched for the APOBEC signature. APOBEC3A expression had the highest correlation coefficient with APOBEC mutation rate. Gene specific motif analysis revealed a slight predominance of APOBEC3A mutations. Canonical pathway analysis demonstrated immune pathway upregulation in APOBEC mutation rich samples. Overall mutational burden was positively correlated with APOBEC enrichment.

Conclusions: APOBEC mediated mutations are highly prevalent in HNSCC. APOBEC3A is the most likely gene to be active in HPV+ HNSCC. APOBEC activity correlates with upregulation of immune signaling pathways, supporting the hypothesis that APOBEC activity could be activated as part of the innate immune response.

Keywords: APOBEC; Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; Human papilloma virus; Mutational signature.