Knockdown of MAP2K2 suppresses the Rap1 pathway to promote cuproptosis in lung cancer

The differential expression of MAP2K2 in lung cancer was analyzed using the UALCAN database. In vivo and in vitro assays were conducted to explore the impact of MAP2K2 on lung cancer. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were assessed through cell counting kit-8, 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. Tumor histology was observed via hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Cuproptosis-related indicators were measured. Western blot was performed to detect protein expression. Transcriptome sequencing was utilized to identify downstream pathways of MAP2K2, and a Rap1 activator was employed in feedback experiments.