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

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

  • By

  • James Odame Aboagye

  • Ruth Ayanful-Torgby

  • Lei Zhou

  • Prince Peter Wormenor

  • Vincent Ganu

  • Kenneth Tachi

  • Bernard Nii Akrashie Attoh

  • Miriam Mensah

  • Timothy Kuuguu

  • Sedzro Kojo Mensah

  • George Boateng Kyei

  • Elijah Paintsil

  • November 11, 2025

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To determine the levels of cytokine secretion and mitochondrial deletion in PLWH and individuals with HCC, specifically those without HIV infection, in Ghana.

Key Findings:
  • PLWH have an increased risk of HCC, particularly among those with HBV or HCV coinfection, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
  • Cytokines such as IL-6, TGF-β, and VEGFA are linked to the initiation and progression of HCC, suggesting potential biomarkers for monitoring.
  • Chronic inflammation due to cytokine imbalance may contribute to the increased incidence of non-AIDS-defining cancers in PLWH, warranting further investigation.
Interpretation:

The study suggests that cytokine secretion in PLWH leads to chronic inflammation through mechanisms such as immune dysregulation, which may increase the risk of developing HCC.

Limitations:
  • The study was cross-sectional, limiting causal inferences and making it difficult to establish temporal relationships.
  • Sample size and selection bias may affect the generalizability of the findings, particularly in diverse populations.
Conclusion:

Understanding cytokine profiles in PLWH could enhance screening and treatment strategies for HCC in this population, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Original Source(s)

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

  • by James Odame Aboagye, Ruth Ayanful-Torgby, Lei Zhou, Prince Peter Wormenor, Vincent Ganu, Kenneth Tachi, Bernard Nii Akrashie Attoh, Miriam Mensah, Timothy Kuuguu, Sedzro Kojo Mensah, George Boateng Kyei, Elijah Paintsil

  • November 11, 2025

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