Mitochondria-related genes or proteins affect the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma: roles, mechanisms and potential treatments

Mitochondria-related genes or proteins can affect various functional indicators of mitochondria, encompassing ATP synthesis, the generation of reactive oxygen species, and the intricate process of mitochondrial autophagy. Numerous researches have unveiled a profound association between mitochondrial dysfunction and the onset, progression, and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. In recent years, a large number of studies have conducted experiments on mitochondria-related genes or proteins to explore their roles and mechanisms in causing mitochondrial functional changes and thereby influencing the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Over the past five years, a plethora of studies have been meticulously conducted on mitochondria - related genes and proteins. The aim is to precisely define their functions and the underlying molecular mechanisms in triggering mitochondrial functional aberrations, thereby affecting the progression of HCC. This review is dedicated to comprehensively recapitulating the pertinent progress made in the past half - decade. Additionally, it will delve into how these factors can present feasible and prospective therapeutic modalities for the management of HCC.