The data analysis generated a heatmap indicating a cluster pattern for genes related to immune response in EBV-positive GC patients, including IRF1, C1QB, TNFSF10 and C1QC. The relationship between EBV infection and immune system hyperactivation in the tumor environment is well-established, showing upregulation of various genes positively correlated with immune response and downregulation of genes negatively correlated with immune response (27). This evidence concerns the gene C1QB and Epstein-Barr virus infection.