Objective To explore the relation between SLC16A family and clinical characteristics, biological behavior of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC).

Methods The expression of 14 members of the SLC16A family in LUAD tissues, LUSC tissues and normal tissues in TCGA database was analyzed by Wilcoxon signed rank sum test. Cox regression was used to evaluate the relation between the family and overall survival, progression-free survival of LUAD and LUSC patients. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the relation between the family and TNM, clinical stage of LUAD and LUSC patients. Principal component analysis was used to establish a Score-SLC16As that comprehensively reflected the family in LUAD and LUSC. ROC, Log rank analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to evaluate the diagnostic effect and survival prediction function of Score-SLC16As on LUAD and LUSC respectively. GSEA was used to evaluate the biological significance of Score-SLC16As and CIBERSORT/Immune checkpoint clusters were used to assess the immune status of Score-SLC16As in LUAD and LUSC.

Results In LUAD and LUSC, most members of SLC16A family were differentially expressed and significantly correlated with survival prognosis. Score-SLC16As can clearly diagnose LUAD and LUSC, significantly predict survival prognosis, and can be used as an independent risk factor. Score-SLC16As is a risk factor for LUAD but a protective factor for LUSC. Score-SLC16As is closely related to tumor proliferation pathways and immune escape.

Conclusion The SLC16A family is closely related to the clinical features and malignant biological behaviors of LUAD and LUSC.