Kombo knife combined with sorafenib in liver cancer treatment: Efficacy and safety under immune function influence

Abstract

BACKGROUND In the quest to manage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the focus has shifted to a more holistic approach encompassing both data analytics and innovative treatments. Analyzing rich data resources, such as the cancer genome atlas (TCGA), and examining progressive therapies can potentially reshape the trajectory of HCC treatment. AIM To elucidate the immunological genes and the underlying mechanism of the combined Kombo knife and sorafenib regimen for HCC by analyzing data from TCGA and machine learning data. METHODS Immune attributes were evaluated via TCGA’s postablation HCC RNA sequencing data. Using weighted gene coexpression network analysis and machine learning, we identified genes with high prognostic value. The therapeutic landscape and safety metrics of the integrated treatment were critically evaluated across cellular and animal models. RESULTS Immune genes–specifically, peptidylprolyl isomerase A and solute carrier family 29 member 3–emerged as significant prognostic markers. Enhanced therapeutic outcomes, such as prolonged progression-free survival and an elevated overall response rate, characterize the combined approach, with peripheral blood mononuclear cells displaying potent effects on HCC dynamics. CONCLUSION The combination of Kombo knife with sorafenib is an innovative HCC treatment modality anchored in immune-centric strategies.