DAC NO.: HDAC000555
DAC name: Recurrence HCC
Contact person: Kuang Ming
URL: http://www.fahsysu.org.cn/node/650
Description: We examined immunogenomic profiles and immune-evasion dynamics during HCC evolution by whole-exome sequencing, bulk and single cell RNA-sequencing, and multiplexed immunofluorescence. Based on mutational profiles, evolutionary trajectories, and clonal architecture, we identified de novo versus true recurrences, some of which occurred earlier than currently diagnosed clinically. Immunity-related pathways were enriched in truly but not in de novo recurrent HCCs when compared to primary HCCs, driven by changes in immune microenvironment. Truly recurrent HCCs showed increases in infiltration and greater proximity between immune cells compared to primary HCC. Only truly recurrent HCCs were characterized by a PD1/PD-L1 axis-related immunosuppressive network in effector immune cells. In conclusion, HCC recurrence is associated with distinct immune activation and immunosuppression in true versus de novo recurrence. Genomic diagnosis and immune profiling should be considered for therapeutic management of HCC patients.