Neural regulation of tumor progression: implications for hepatocellular carcinoma
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By
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Yalin Chen
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Zhanghui Long
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Yuan-Sheng Zang
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Dong Wu
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June 19, 2026
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Objective:
To summarize current knowledge of neural-mediated tumor progression across malignancies and its relevance to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Approach:
Key Findings:
- Neural activity promotes tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and immune evasion.
- Neural signals interact with canonical oncogenic pathways, enhancing tumor-promoting programs.
- Tumors actively remodel the nervous system, establishing feedback loops that facilitate progression.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
- Critical knowledge gaps exist regarding specific neural circuits involved in tumor progression.
- The temporal dynamics of innervation during disease progression are not fully understood.
- The intersection of neural pathways with canonical oncogenic drivers remains unclear.
Conclusion: