WNT/β-catenin-M2 macrophage interplay as a target for therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma: Role of Calculus bovis.

Abstract

Liver cancer, and in particular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a disease of rising prevalence and incidence. To date, definitive treatment options include either surgical excision or ablation of the affected area. With increasing research on several pathways that could be involved in the progression of HCC, new elements within these pathways emerge as potential targets for novel therapies. The WNT/β-catenin pathway favors the presence of M2 tumor-associated macrophages which in turn promote tumor growth and metastasis. The inhibition of this pathway is considered a good candidate for such targeted therapeutic interventions. Interestingly, as Huang et al show in their recently published article, Calculus bovis which is used in traditional Chinese medicine can exert an inhibitory effect on the β-catenin pathway and become a potential candidate for targeted pharmacotherapy against liver cancer.