MiT fusions, TSC1-TSC2 divergence, and stem-like programs reveal distinct origins and vulnerabilities in PEComa.

Abstract

Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms (PEComas) are ultra-rare mesenchymal tumors lacking a molecular classification to guide therapy. Here we perform comprehensive multi-omic profiling of an unselected PEComa cohort. We identify frequent MITF rearrangements involving actin gene partners (ACTA2, ACTG1 and ACTB). Anatomical stratification reveals cyclin-dependent kinase module mutations in gynecologic tumors, whereas soft tissue, gastrointestinal, and pelvic tumors lacked mTOR pathway alterations but are enriched for TFE3/MITF rearrangements. Transcriptomic analysis defines four subtypes with distinct lineage programs-melanocytic, mesenchymal, or adipogenic-as well as unique mutational patterns and clinical behaviors. Notably, an aggressive stem-like subtype enriched for TP53/RB1 mutations exhibits high proliferation, activation of embryonic and Hedgehog signaling, immune infiltration, and resistance to mTOR inhibitors, but potential responsiveness to immunotherapy. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing reveals intra-tumoral heterogeneity within this subtype, including divergent inflammatory states. Together, these findings establish a molecular classification framework and identify actionable vulnerabilities in PEComa.