Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells upregulate lipid uptake, de novo lipogenesis, and fatty acid oxidation, supporting tumour growth and metastasis. Targeting lipid metabolism, including CE synthesis and lipid biosynthetic enzymes, shows synergistic effects with antitumour drugs.
Researchers identified a distinct risk profile for young adults with early-onset fatty liver disease, associated with genetic factors and metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes. The study highlights the need for more accurate liver screening and assessment for individuals at greatest risk.
Researchers identify HLA-E as a key regulator of metastasis-initiating hepatocyte states, linked to IFN-γ–JAK–STAT3 pathway. Chronic immune pressure contributes to metastasis initiation in HCC, suggesting a new target for limiting immune-driven metastasis.
Researchers discovered that artesunate targets glucosylceramidase (GBA) to induce apoptosis in HCC, disrupting sphingolipid homeostasis and activating caspase-dependent signaling pathways. GBA inhibition promotes α-syn accumulation, impairing CTSD maturation and triggering mitochondrial apoptosis.
Researchers classified liver cancer into three molecular subtypes based on lipid droplet-associated genes, identifying PLIN3 as a key regulator of tumor progression. The study provides insights into metabolic reprogramming and heterogeneity in HCC, offering a framework for personalized prognostic and therapeutic strategies.
Researchers found that targeting the 4EBP1/HSP90β/Nrf2 axis sensitizes β-catenin-mutant hepatocellular carcinoma to mTOR inhibitors by inducing ferroptosis. The combination therapy of MLN0128 and PD901 showed the strongest effect in suppressing tumor growth.
A Singapore team developed a machine-learning tool that accurately predicts liver cancer recurrence after surgery, outperforming the TNM staging system. The tool identifies two biologically distinct patterns of recurrence, enabling personalized approaches to risk prediction and targeted therapies.
A recent study found that 8-chloroadenosine inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by disrupting the ADAR1/PPARγ lipid metabolism axis. The compound reduced ADAR1 expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner, promoting suppressed tumor proliferation, invasion, and survival.
A study reveals ADAR1p110 drives HCC metastasis by regulating microRNA biogenesis, particularly through post-transcriptional regulation of miR-451a. This blockade suppresses mature miR-451a, leading to increased TUBA1A expression and enhanced tumor cell migration and invasion.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) gene signatures can predict prognosis and respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, validating these signatures across different platforms and overcoming ethical concerns hinder their widespread adoption. Integrating multi-omics approaches with liquid biopsy holds promise for personalized therapy,...
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was linked to an increased risk of liver cancer. In contrast, artificially sweetened beverage intake showed no significant association with liver cancer risk.
A study of over 229,000 obese adults without diabetes found that weight loss drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, were associated with a 41% decrease in the overall risk of developing obesity-related cancers. GLP-1 RAs also showed larger reductions in certain subgroups, including men and gynaecologic cancers.
This study developed a diagnostic strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma based on serum protein glycosylation signatures. Serum IgG was analyzed for differential N-glycosylation patterns to differentiate HCC from healthy controls and liver cirrhosis.
A study of 152 patients with recurrent HCC compared the efficacy of sequential transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) versus SBRT alone. The combination showed a favorable trend toward improved survival without increased severe toxicity.
The study found that colbopasvir plus sofosbuvir achieved a 99.1% SVR12 rate, with high success rates for genotypes 3a, 3b, 6a, and compensated cirrhosis. The regimen also improved liver function and fibrosis markers.
A real-world cohort study investigates the association between HBV DNA levels and clinical outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. Patients achieving a sustained virological response had lower rates of hepatocellular carcinoma, liver-related death, and progression to decompensation.
Recent studies have explored tumor vaccine platforms, including peptide, dendritic cell, and nucleic acid-based vaccines. Personalized neoantigen vaccines are refining precision in HCC treatment, but challenges persist due to immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments and heterogeneity.
Guideline recommendations for immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced liver injury (ICILI) vary, with corticosteroids and biopsy indications differing among organizations. Rechallenge after ICILI is feasible in selected patients, with low recurrence rates, but standardized algorithms are needed.
Researchers from Shandong Second Medical University and Wuhan University identified LINC00862 as a tumor suppressor that forms a triplex-mediated transcriptional activation driving tumor suppression in HCC. The study reveals a bidirectional regulatory loop between LINC00862 and RBM47, which reinforces tumor suppression.
A team of researchers at MSU used machine learning to predict how chemicals will influence gene expression, leading to the discovery of promising compounds for the treatment of liver cancer and a chronic lung disease. The study results from years of interdisciplinary work across multiple disciplines and institutes.
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo reveal the SPP1–CD44–Hedgehog signaling pathway as a key driver of fibrosis in liver tumors, hinting at its potential as a therapeutic target. The study provides valuable insights into how liver tumors actively shape their surroundings, driving the onset and progression of fibrosis.
A positive feedback loop between UBE2V1 and HIF-1α drives HCC progression by facilitating tumor growth and metastasis. UBE2V1 promotes HCC progression by competing with HIF-1α for VHL protein binding, leading to sustained HIF-1α stabilization.
A study by RIKEN researchers identifies a MYCN-driven biomarker that predicts the risk of liver cancer. The biomarker, known as the MYCN niche score, uses machine learning to analyze gene expression patterns and indicates whether a tumor-free liver is at high risk for developing tumors.
This study investigates the prognostic value of PNI in patients receiving first-line Ate/Bev therapy for unresectable HCC. The high-PNI group showed improved treatment outcomes, including lower adverse events and longer overall survival.
Researchers uncover a hypoxia–m⁶A–Gal-1 regulatory axis that fuels HCC progression by stabilizing Galectin-1 (Gal-1) mRNA, promoting malignant phenotypes. Functional experiments confirmed Gal-1's role in enhancing HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT-driven phenotypic plasticity.
PIVKA-II is a valuable tool for early detection, prognostication, and therapeutic response monitoring in HCC. Its integration into multi-parametric models enhances diagnostic accuracy and enables dynamic risk stratification.
Smoking exposure induces tumor microenvironment promoting sorafenib resistance in HCC by modifying the 14-3-3η proteome. Arsenic trioxide suppresses tumor progression with synergistic effect when combined with sorafenib.
Myosteatosis is a key predictor of poor clinical outcomes across a spectrum of liver diseases, with associations to severe disease phenotypes, hepatocellular carcinoma, and increased mortality. Nutritional intervention, exercise prescription, and potential management strategies are proposed to address this condition.
Nutrient-stimulated hormone-based therapies (NuSHs) show promise in managing MASH and preventing HCC progression. NuSHs improve metabolic parameters, reduce liver fat and fibrosis, and modulate immune-metabolic pathways that drive hepatocarcinogenesis.
Large language models (LLMs) provide treatment recommendations for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that align with clinical guidelines. However, their performance is limited in late-stage disease, where they prioritize tumor factors over liver function. LLMs should be used as a supplement to clinical expertise.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 13, 2026
A recent study reveals that over 680,000 new cases of hepatocellular carcinoma were estimated worldwide in 2022, with 78.4% attributable to nine modifiable risk factors. The majority of HCC cases are preventable, and the study emphasizes the need for targeted preventive programs.
A study has uncovered a promising three-lncRNA signature that could improve early diagnosis and treatment strategies for non-metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma. The lncRNAs HEIH, MIAT, and HOTAIR were found to be significantly elevated in cancerous tissues.
The Chinese Society of Hepatology outlines a structured framework for monitoring, diagnosing, preventing, and managing drug-induced liver injury in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Key risk factors include underlying liver disease, genetic predisposition, and drug-specific factors.
Researchers developed a nanoparticle system combining lenalidomide and melarsoprol to activate the cGAS-STING pathway, promoting immunotherapy for HCC. The combination therapy significantly reduced tumor growth and improved survival in mouse models.
Researchers found that tumor-associated macrophages produce acetate through a metabolic interaction involving lactate and the lipid peroxidation–ALDH2 pathway. This acetate promotes histone H3 acetylation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells, enhancing metastasis.
Researchers found OGT expression is higher in MASLD-HCC tissues, promoting tumor growth. OGT modifies PTEN, impairing its function and activating the PI3K/Akt pathway.
A study of over 3,000 patients identified molecular hallmarks driving hyper-progression recurrence in liver cancer, enabling tailored surgical decisions and targeted therapies. Predictive models and nomograms stratify patients before and after surgery, guiding more effective strategies.
Glypican-3 is a key driver of hepatocellular carcinoma progression, facilitating metastasis and tumor microenvironment remodeling. Immunotherapy targeting GPC3 has shown preliminary safety and antitumor activity in clinical trials, with ongoing research focusing on optimized patient selection and disease monitoring.
A new clinical model integrating CT signatures predicts HCC risk more accurately than existing models, stratifying patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. The study enhances individualized surveillance and improves patient outcomes for cirrhosis patients.
PANoptosis, a hybrid form of cell death, is being explored as a strategy to tackle liver cancer. By integrating apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis pathways, PANoptosis triggers both direct tumor killing and immune reprogramming.
hsa_circ_101555 demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in differentiating non-HCC CLD patients from healthy controls. Serum levels correlated with advanced liver disease scores and inflammation markers.
A blood test using microbial DNA analysis can distinguish primary liver cancer from colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver, according to a new study. The test reveals distinct bacterial 'fingerprints' for each cancer type, making it a powerful tool for non-invasive diagnosis and potential future therapy guidance.
This study found that ATOX1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth by activating the c-Myb/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. ATOX1 also reduces copper accumulation and increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to apoptosis in HCC cells.
A study found that in immune-tolerant HBV patients, a cumulative HBsAg/HBV DNA ratio below 1.791 is associated with a lower risk of disease progression, while those above this threshold face increased risk. Early antiviral treatment may improve clinical outcomes for these patients.
The Lancet commission emphasizes the need for concrete goals to reduce hepatocellular carcinoma's growing disease burden. The authors propose a 2% annual reduction in age-standardized incidence rates and recommend evidence-based strategies to tackle viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, environmental risk factors, and disparities in he...
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded $4.2 million to five new Clinical Investigators conducting patient-oriented cancer research. The awards will support the development of new treatments for cancer patients, with a focus on enhancing efficacy and safety.
A new study published in the Journal of Hepatology shows that durvalumab plus GemCis significantly improves overall survival for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer. The three-year follow-up analysis found that over twice as many participants treated with durvalumab plus GemCis remained alive compared to those treated with a pl...
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 10, 2025
Researchers found Galectin-1, a sugar-binding protein, plays a critical role in helping hepatocellular carcinoma cells resist thermal ablation and thrive after being treated with high heat. Blocking Gal-1 can make thermal ablation more effective and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Researchers have discovered that TAF2 plays a pivotal role in the growth of liver cancer and can help promote tumor formation. The study's findings suggest that targeting TAF2 could lead to more effective treatments for liver cancer.
Research highlights the critical role of epigenetic changes in hepatocellular carcinoma development, including DNA methylation and histone modifications. Noncoding RNAs also play a key role in HCC pathogenesis and may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis.
A study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe found that patients with low household income were more likely to be diagnosed late and receive less effective treatment for liver cancer. This highlights the need for targeted screening in deprived areas to improve early diagnosis and survival rates.
Recent research has focused on neddylation modification as a key driver of tumor cell proliferation, migration, and survival. Neddylation inhibitors have demonstrated significant efficacy in disrupting cancer cell growth by selectively inhibiting the neddylation pathway.
The study found that serum-derived hsa_circ_101555 showed excellent diagnostic accuracy in differentiating HCC patients from healthy controls. It also demonstrated a prognostic role in predicting tumor progression and response to therapy, with significant correlations with markers of liver inflammation and tumor features.
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most prevalent form of liver cancer, and liver transplantation offers a curative treatment option for appropriately selected patients. Bridging therapies, such as radiofrequency ablation and transarterial chemoembolization, can improve survival outcomes post-transplant by preventing tumor progression.
A study published in Journal of Proteome Research reveals that inflammation and aging contribute to the development of non-viral liver cancer. Researchers analyzed gene expression and metabolites in normal and affected samples, identifying potential therapeutic targets for chemoprevention.
GTF3C2 expression is upregulated in HCC tissues, promoting tumor growth and poor survival outcomes. The GTF3C2/USP21/MEK2/ERK1/2 pathway regulates HCC cell proliferation and tumor growth.
A phase 3 study found that combining lenvatinib and pembrolizumab with transarterial chemoembolization significantly extended progression-free survival and showed a trend toward extending overall survival in patients with unresectable non-metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma. The treatment may lead to a complete cure.
Direct-acting antivirals have reduced HCV-related morbidity and mortality, but hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk persists in certain populations. Risk factors include pre-treatment cirrhosis, metabolic disorders, and advanced fibrosis, highlighting the need for tailored surveillance strategies.
Researchers identified two immune subtypes of HCC patients with varying overall survival rates and immunity levels. Subtype 1-associated NK cells showed improved response to docetaxel and thalidomide, suggesting new hope for ICI treatment in HCC.
A recent cohort study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that statin use was associated with a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic decompensation in patients with chronic liver disease. This suggests that statins may play a role in preventing the progression of liver disease and reducing the risk of liver cancer.