An innovative study of hepatocellular carcinoma
A recent article published in the magazine ‘Journal of Hepatology’ reveals significant discoveries by researchers at Hospital Clínic-Idibaps on the response of patients to immunotherapy treatment for liver cancer. This study highlights the molecular characteristics that could determine the effectiveness or resistance to these treatments.
A challenge to oncology: treatment resistance
With 70% of patients who do not respond to immunotherapy, it is essential to investigate the factors that influence this resistance. The combination of Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab has proven to be a promising treatment for the hepatocellular carcinoma, but the results show that only a third of patients gains significant improvements.
Collaborative research in Europe
The study, directed by Dr. Josep M. Llovet, involved 10 European centers and analyzed 320 patients. Using advanced techniques such as single cell analysis, researchers were able to identify immune subpopulations and their characteristics related to treatment response.
Implications for accuracy oncology
The results of this research open new avenues for precision oncology. According to Llovet, these discoveries could facilitate the identification of patients who will really benefit from combined immunotherapy, as well as guide the development of new therapies for those who do not currently respond.
Classification of patients according to the response
The study classifies patients into two groups: immunocompents, which have an inflamed tumor microenvironment, and those directed by angiogenesis, which could be more vulnerable to Antiangiogenic. Both groups show a survival of more than 30 months, emphasizing the importance of customizing treatments.
Identified resistance mechanisms
Researchers have identified two main mechanisms that contribute to treatment resistance: activation of immune immune immune immunosuppressive immune cells and notch and TGF-β signaling pathways. Patients with these characteristics have a median survival of 11 months, emphasizing the need for new therapeutic strategies.
A look into the future
The evidence contained in this study is essential to design more efficient treatments that can benefit a greater number of patients. Llovet concludes that understanding the mechanisms that facilitate resistance or response to treatment is a key step in moving forward in approaching this devastating disease.