Hepatitis C virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Oncology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern, with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) being a primary cause.
• HCV's complex interaction with the host, including its RNA nature and lack of genome integration, contributes to HCC development.
• Host genetic factors, such as polymorphisms in immune and metabolic pathways, significantly influence HCC risk in HCV-infected individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the mechanisms of HCV-induced HCC and the role of host factors.
• To evaluate the current and future role of clinical and molecular markers in identifying high-risk HCV patients for HCC.
• To highlight the potential of molecular biomarkers in optimizing HCC chemoprevention clinical trials.

Main Methods:

• Review of direct and indirect mechanisms of HCV-induced HCC.
• Analysis of host factors, including genetic polymorphisms, associated with HCC risk.
• Discussion of clinical and molecular biomarker applications for risk stratification and trial enrichment.

Main Results:

• HCV-induced HCC involves complex host pathway activation (fibrogenic, cellular, immune, metabolic).
• Host genetic variations play a crucial role in determining individual HCC risk.
• Despite effective antivirals, HCV-related HCC burden persists, necessitating advanced risk assessment tools.

Conclusions:

• Molecular biomarkers are emerging as essential tools for objective risk stratification in HCV patients.
• Biomarker-guided approaches can personalize HCC surveillance and therapy, and enhance clinical trial efficiency.
• Further validation of clinical and molecular markers is needed, particularly in patients achieving sustained virological response.