Letter to the editor: the potential value of NDUFA4L2 in colon adenocarcinoma remains to be fully evaluated.

Abstract

This letter addresses the recent study by Zhou et al. on NDUFA4L2's role in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. While the research is laudable, we identify areas for further refinement. Firstly, we suggest employing Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) to better understand NDUFA4L2's functional role in COAD by examining gene modules that co-vary with its expression. Secondly, we recommend expanding the analysis to include potential drugs targeting NDUFA4L2 using the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) and molecular simulations to validate these interactions. Lastly, we propose Mendelian randomization analysis to establish a causal link between NDUFA4L2 expression and COAD risk. By implementing these suggestions, the study could be significantly enhanced, offering deeper insights into COAD's molecular mechanisms and more precise therapeutic strategies. Our commentary aims to enrich the genomic findings and contribute to the advancement of COAD research.