Fig. 1

The differentiation of macrophages into distinct phenotypes, namely M1 and M2-like, is influenced by various stimulators. For instance, the exposure to LPS and IFN-γ induces macrophages to adopt an M1-like phenotype. M1-like macrophages express specific markers such as CD80, CD86, CD16, CD32, CD64, among others. These M1-like macrophages are capable of secreting pro-inflammatory factors including TNF-α, NO, IL-12, among others. Furthermore, they can activate T cells and NK cells, thereby mediating anti-tumor immunity against HCC cells. Conversely, the presence of IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13 can induce macrophages to undergo M2-like polarization. M2-like macrophages express specific markers such as CD163, CD206, CD209, TGF-β, IL-10, among others. These M2-like macrophages play a role in promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting T cell activation, and inducing T cell apoptosis, thereby assisting HCC cells in evading immune surveillance