Platelets in Hepatocellular Carcinoma-From Pathogenesis to Targeted Therapy

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence is rising, driven by chronic liver inflammation and cirrhosis.
• The tumor microenvironment (TME) and cancer cell interactions are crucial in HCC pathogenesis.
• Platelets (PLTs) are increasingly recognized for their role in cancer progression and as prognostic markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of platelet roles in HCC.
• To explore the potential of platelets as therapeutic targets in HCC management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review summarizing preclinical and clinical research.
• Analysis of platelet interactions within the tumor microenvironment.
• Evaluation of current and emerging clinical applications of platelet modulation in HCC.

Main Results:

• Platelets significantly influence HCC development, progression, and metastasis through TME interactions.
• Platelets are implicated in liver healing and regeneration, and are used in HCC prognostic models.
• Clinical trials investigating platelet blockers for HCC adjunctive therapy are increasing.

Conclusions:

• Platelets are pivotal players in HCC, mediating tumor cell and TME interactions.
• Targeting platelets presents a promising therapeutic avenue for HCC.
• Further research is essential to fully leverage platelets in clinical practice for HCC treatment.