Gut microbiome dysbiosis in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with persistent HCV viremia versus viral clearance: a cross-sectional study

Distinct gut microbial signatures distinguish HCC patients with persistent HCV viremia from those who achieve viral clearance, with implications for risk stratification and therapeutic targeting. The F/B ratio, abundance of Asteroleplasma, and functional pathway disruption (butyrate depletion) could serve as potential biomarkers for HCC progression. These findings underscore the influential role of the gut microbiome in hepatocarcinogenesis and its potential utility in personalized HCC management.