HCC-derived CX3CL1 affects hepatocellular carcinoma prognosis and CX3CR1 + MDSC infiltration

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, largely because of its ability to reshape the tumor microenvironment and evade immune surveillance.

CX3CL1 expression in HCC tumor tissues was assessed via immunohistochemistry, while plasma levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). CX3CR1-positive immune cell infiltration was analyzed by immunofluorescence. The associations among CX3CL1 expression, CX3CR1-positive cell infiltration, and patient prognosis were examined. Additionally, cell-based assays were conducted to evaluate the impact of CX3CL1 amplification on the expression of myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC)-recruiting factors.

Elevated CX3CL1 levels were significantly correlated with increased MDSC infiltration in the tumor microenvironment and poorer patient prognosis. CX3CL1 amplification led to the upregulation of MDSC-recruiting factors, suggesting a potential mechanism for immune evasion.

These findings highlight the possible involvement of CX3CL1 in HCC progression via MDSC recruitment, suggesting that it is a promising therapeutic target for promoting antitumor immunity. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore potential therapeutic strategies.