Deciphering the Role of KIF18A in Osteosarcoma Progression: An Integrative Analysis and Experimental Validation

This study reveals that <i>KIF18A</i> is upregulated in OS, particularly in metastatic cases, and is linked to poor clinical outcomes. Functional experiments confirm that <i>KIF18A</i> promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells while suppressing apoptosis. <i>In vivo</i> experiments reveal that <i>KIF18A</i> knockdown strongly inhibits tumor growth. <i>KIF18A</i> expression correlates with dysregulation of key oncogenic pathways, an immunosuppressive microenvironment, and potential immunotherapy resistance. These results highlight <i>KIF18A</i>'s role as a pivotal oncogene in OS progression and suggest its promise as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target.