Essential roles of B cell subsets in the progression of MASLD and HCC

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the primary liver cancer with a constantly rising mortality rate. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an emerging important cause of HCC. Current treatment options for HCC are limited and there is a high risk of recurrence. The study aims to identify new therapeutic strategies by exploring the immunological aspects of MASLD and HCC. Our findings extend the current knowledge on the role of B cells in the progression of MASLD and HCC. This study emphasizes the involvement of IgM⁺IgD⁺ regulatory B cells (Bregs) in malignant liver disease progression. These Bregs characterized by a high expression of PD-L1, IL-10, IgM, and IgD. Two other B cell subsets with immunosuppressive phenotype have been found in the study in murine liver disease - plasmablasts and non-switched memory B cells. Targeting these B cells could lead to more effective treatments of HCC.