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

Abstract

Background: 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.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusions: 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.