Targeting Treg-fibroblast interaction to enhance immunotherapy in steatotic liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Steatotic liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma (SLD-HCC), a rising global challenge, is characterised by unique tumour microenvironment (TME) adaptations.

Objective

This study investigates the immune microenvironment and interactions driving immunosuppression and potential resistance to immunotherapy in SLD-HCC.

Design

We employed single-cell transcriptomics, cytometry by time-of-flight (CyTOF) and two independent spatial transcriptomics platforms to study the TME of 22 SLD-HCC and 31 non-SLD-HCC cases. Findings were further validated using multiplex immunohistochemistry in an independent cohort of 103 patients, an HCC model and an immunotherapy-treated patient cohort to evaluate clinical relevance.

Results

Our findings revealed significant

SUBMITTER: Prawira A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12703262 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature