Tumor-associated macrophages promote resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells against sorafenib by activating CXCR2 signaling.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sorafenib (SOR) is the first line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but resistance develops frequently. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have been reported to affect the progression of HCC. We therefore aimed to study the role of TAMs in promoting SOR resistance.

Methods

Immunofluorescence staining for the M2 marker CD204 and the cancer stem cell (CSC) markers CD44 and CD133 was performed in paired HCC and adjacent noncancerous tissues and HCC tissues stratified by response of SOR treatment. HCC/U937 coculture system and cytokines were used to induce M2 polarization for studying the effects of M2 TAMs on CSC properties and apoptotic death of HCC cells after SOR treatment.

Results

Higher expression of CD204, CD44, and CD133 was observ

SUBMITTER: Wang HC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9677647 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature