Lipid metabolism of hepatocellular carcinoma impacts targeted therapy and immunotherapy

World J Gastrointest Oncol. 2023 Apr 15;15(4):617-631. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i4.617.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor that affecting many people's lives globally. The common risk factors for HCC include being overweight and obese. The liver is the center of lipid metabolism, synthesizing most cholesterol and fatty acids. Abnormal lipid metabolism is a significant feature of metabolic reprogramming in HCC and affects the prognosis of HCC patients by regulating inflammatory responses and changing the immune microenvironment. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are being explored as the primary treatment strategies for HCC patients with unresectable tumors. Here, we detail the specific changes of lipid metabolism in HCC and its impact on both these therapies for HCC. HCC treatment strategies aimed at targeting lipid metabolism and how to integrate them with targeted therapy or immunotherapy rationally are also presented.

Keywords: Drug resistance; Hepatocellular carcinoma; Immunotherapy; Lipid metabolism; Targeted therapy; Therapeutic efficacy.

Publication types

  • Review