Combined Analysis of scRNA-seq and Bulk RNA-seq Sequencing Revealing the Heterogeneity of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis and Key Molecular Mechanisms of Its Occurrence and Development.

OBJECTIVE: Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a benign tumor that is highly prone to recurrence and has the potential to become malignant, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The underlying mechanism is unclear, and new targets need to be explored urgently. METHODS: This study integrated single-cell and bulk RNA-seq data, screened key genes through cell communication, machine learning, and animal models, constructed a predictive model, and completed drug prediction and independent validation. RESULTS: This single-cell sequencing study revealed an active fibroblast-epithelial dialogue within the RRP, and defined three subtypes of fibroblasts and their developmental trajectories. It identified key genes such as GJB2 and the ceRNA regulatory network, revealed imbalances in the immune microenvironment, and predicted potential therapeutic drugs. CONCLUSION: The key genes identified in this study, GJB2, IL36G, and S100A7, can serve as potential molecular markers and therapeutic targets for the early diagnosis, prognosis assessment, and precise treatment of RRP.