Potential Immunotherapy Targets for Liver-Directed Therapies, and the Current Scope of Immunotherapeutics for Liver-Related Malignancies

Abstract

Liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, is increasing in incidence and mortality across the globe. An improved understanding of the complex tumor microenvironment has opened many therapeutic doors and led to the development of novel pharmaceuticals targeting cellular signaling pathways or immune checkpoints. These interventions have significantly improved tumor control rates and patient outcomes, both in clinical trials and in real-world practice. Interventional radiologists play an important role in the multidisciplinary team given their expertise in minimally invasive locoregional therapy, as the bulk of these tumors are usually in the liver. The aim of this review is to highlight the immunological therapeutic targets for primary liver cancers, the available immune-based approaches, and the contributions that interventional radiology can provide in the care of these patients.

Advances in Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

“…Overall, combining immunotherapy with liver-directed therapy is a promising approach that capitalizes on their complementary mechanisms of action. This can lead to enhanced tumor control, systemic immune activation, and potential synergistic effects for a more effective and comprehensive treatment of liver cancers [28,115,116].…”