Integrative Meta‐Analysis and WGCNA Reveal Candidate Diagnostic Hub Genes in Clear Cell Carcinoma

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains poorly understood at the genetic level. In this study, 12 GEO microarray datasets were combined, and meta-analysis and multiparameter gene prioritization were used to reveal candidate diagnostic biomarkers. Improved preprocessing and analysis were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which led to 4651 DEGs enriched in metabolic pathways, immune response, and kidney development. Key transcription factors (TFs), including ZNF692, ZNF395, and ZNF582, were identified. Utilizing WGCNA, 21 hub genes were identified, and diagnostic potential was determined via ROC analysis. Seventeen of the genes with AUC > 0.7 were validated as diagnostic hub genes, including ALDH2, ACADM, KIF11, and PTPRC. Nine of these genes showed significant prognostic relevance. The current work identifies key biomarkers that can enhance ccRCC diagnosis and guide future therapy.