Fig. 1

Macrophage targeting strategy in HCC therapy. Preclinical studies have identified key pathways that regulate the recruitment, polarization, survival, and autophagy of TAMs during tumor progression. In addition, inhibition of macrophage-derived VEGF can inhibit tumor angiogenesis and progression. Targeting key receptors or signaling proteins can inhibit these macrophage properties and inhibit tumor progression. These molecular targets form the basis of several therapeutic HCC strategies currently being clinically developed to promote an effective anti-tumor immune response. Abbreviations: TAM, tumor-associated macrophages; Treg cells: regulatory T cells;VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor