Targeting hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metabolism: A synergistic approach with para-toluenesulfonamide and radiofrequency ablation

Background and aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal forms of cancer, posing challenges to standard treatment methods. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a valuable technique for the local control of advanced HCC, especially in cases unsuitable for surgical resection. Para-toluenesulfonamide (PTS) has demonstrated antitumor properties in various cancers, yet its efficacy against HCC remains underexplored. The present study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of PTS in HCC and examine potential synergistic effects with RFA.

Methods

PTS was injected directly into subcutaneous tumor tissues and its effects on cell survival, gene expression, and metabolic activity in HCC cells were evaluated. The effect of PTS and RFA in combination on HCC growth was examined using a nude mouse model of subcutaneous HCC. Data were visualized using heat maps.

Results

PTS inhibited the survival of HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner, modulating the expression of key genes related to cell survival, apoptosis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and proliferation. The combination of PTS and RFA markedly enhanced the inhibition of HCC tumor growth and induced alterations in cellular metabolism.

Conclusion

Combining PTS and RFA may be a promising approach to improve the efficacy of HCC treatment.