Treatment Options for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Immunotherapy: Present and Future

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and patient prognosis are significantly influenced by the body's immune responses.
• Tumor microenvironment immunosuppression and self-tolerance are key factors in HCC, forming the basis for immunotherapy.
• Biomarkers are crucial for monitoring HCC progression and treatment response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the tumor microenvironment and immunosuppression in HCC.
• To examine current and emerging immunotherapies for HCC treatment.
• To discuss future research directions in HCC immunotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on HCC, tumor microenvironment, and immunotherapy.
• Analysis of antibody-based therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
• Exploration of cellular immunotherapies (TCR T cell, CAR T cell), vaccines, and oncolytic virotherapy.

Main Results:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 have transformed HCC treatment.
• ICIs can be used alone or with targeted therapies for advanced HCC.
• Cellular immunotherapies, vaccines, and oncolytic virotherapy represent promising future treatment avenues.

Conclusions:

• Immunotherapy, particularly ICIs, has revolutionized HCC treatment.
• Combination therapies and novel approaches like cellular immunotherapy and vaccines offer new hope for HCC patients.
• Continued research is vital for advancing HCC treatment strategies and improving patient survival.