Association of cancer-related cytokines and mitochondrial DNA alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma patients and HIV-positive individuals in Ghana

Overview

This study investigates the levels of cytokine secretion and mitochondrial DNA alterations in individuals with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and those living with HIV in Ghana. It highlights the increased risk of HCC among people living with HIV, particularly in the context of chronic inflammation caused by cytokine imbalances.

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant health concern, particularly among people living with HIV (PLWH), who are at an elevated risk for non-AIDS-defining cancers. The interplay between chronic infections, cytokine production, and mitochondrial DNA alterations may contribute to the pathogenesis of HCC in this population. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for improving screening and treatment strategies for HCC in PLWH.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the provided material.

Key Findings

• PLWH exhibit a higher incidence of HCC compared to the general population, particularly among older individuals.
• Chronic infections with HBV and HCV in PLWH are associated with increased risk and rapid progression to HCC.
• Pro-inflammatory cytokines play a significant role in chronic inflammation, which is linked to cancer development.
• Cytokines such as IL-6, TGF-β, and VEGFA are implicated in the initiation and progression of HCC.
• Mitochondrial DNA alterations may be influenced by cytokine-induced oxidative stress, contributing to cancer pathogenesis.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be vigilant in screening for HCC in PLWH, especially those with chronic hepatitis virus infections. Understanding the role of cytokines in HCC development may inform targeted interventions and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the importance of monitoring cytokine levels and mitochondrial DNA alterations in PLWH to better understand their risk for HCC. Enhanced screening protocols may be necessary to address this growing health concern.

References

1. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2021 -- Mitochondrial DNA Variation, Antiretroviral Therapy, and Incidence of Diabetes Among Men With and Without HIV
2. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2021 -- The Dynamics of Human Cytomegalovirus Markers in Tuberculosis Disease Among People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus on Long-term Antiretroviral Therapy: A Nested Case-Control Study
3. The ASCO Post, 2016 -- Risk for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in HIV-Infected Patients
4. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2021 -- Cerebrospinal Fluid Low-Grade Inflammation Contributes to Mortality in Tuberculous Meningitis Among HIV Patients
5. GLOBOCAN, 2022 -- Ghana Fact Sheet
6. EASL, 2024 -- New EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on Hepatocellular Carcinoma
7. Frontiers, 2024 -- Blood biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma: a critical review
8. https://gco.iarc.who.int/media/globocan/factsheets/populations/288-ghana-fact-sheet.pdf
9. New EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on Hepatocellular Carcinoma - EASL-The Home of Hepatology.
10. Frontiers | Blood biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma: a critical review