Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
Abstract Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant global health challenge with high incidence and mortality rates. T cells and natural killer (NK) cells are pivotal in this context, yet HCC can evade immune surveillance. CD161 (KLRB1), a C-type lectin receptor, modulates immune responses and is expressed on NK cells and a subset of T cells. Its relevance in HCC remains poorly understood, with conflicting findings regarding its impact on patient prognosis. Methods Utilizing TCGA data and single-cell analysis, we investigated the biological functions of KLRB1 in HCC. Peripheral blood samples from 126 HCC patients were collected to assess KLRB1 expression on NK and T cells. The diagnostic performance of KLRB1 on NK and CD8 + T cells was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, while its prognostic significance was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and COX regression models. Results Analysis of TCGA data revealed a significant correlation between KLRB1 expression and immune activation, particularly T cell activation. Single-cell data further demonstrated elevated KLRB1 expression in tissue-resident NK and T cells within HCC, which co-expressed markers of immune activation. Clinical data showed downregulated KLRB1 expression on NK and T cells in HCC patients compared to health individuals, with lower expression levels correlating with poorer prognosis. Conclusion KLRB1 emerges as a promising biomarker in HCC, with its downregulation on peripheral blood NK and T cells suggesting potential prognostic value. Further elucidation of KLRB1’s role in HCC may pave the way for the development of targeted immunotherapies and the improvement of patient outcomes.
Fang et al. (Mon,) studied this question.