What's Happening?
Recent research has identified that targeting DDOST, a component of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex, can improve the efficacy of lenvatinib and immunotherapy in treating hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC). The study found that DDOST is upregulated in HCC tissues and is associated with decreased patient survival. Knockdown of DDOST in HCC cells inhibited malignant behaviors and enhanced their response to lenvatinib, a drug used in cancer treatment. The research suggests that DDOST plays a role in protein N-glycosylation, which is crucial for the stability and function of proteins like EGFR and PD-L1, both involved in cancer progression and immune evasion.
Why It's Important?
This discovery has significant implications for cancer treatment, particularly for HCC, which is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. By targeting DDOST, it may be possible to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments like lenvatinib and immunotherapy, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The findings also highlight the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer progression and resistance to treatment, which could lead to the development of more targeted and effective therapies.
