Single-cell transcriptomics identifies an H2AFZ-driven proliferative tumor subpopulation associated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma

We identified a proliferative, stem-like tumor cell subpopulation (Tumor_C2) in HCC characterized by high <i>H2AFZ</i> expression, which drives tumor aggressiveness. T cell analysis revealed significant interactions with Tumor_C2. Moreover, a prognostic model based on Tumor_C2 features effectively stratified patient survival across multiple cohorts. Together, these findings highlight potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.