Phospholipase inhibitors as cancer therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and deadly malignant tumors in the world. About 90% of HCC cases develop on the basis of cirrhosis. Current treatments in HCC consist of curative treatment (surgical resection, ablation, transplantation), locoregional treatments (transarterial chemoembolization, transarterial radioembolization), systemic treatment, and supportive treatments. HCC is a global public health problem. Therefore, new treatment options are needed. Phospholipase (PL) is a member of a complex group of enzymes that break down phospholipids into fatty acids and other compounds. PLs are identified by the enzymatic reaction they catalyze. PLs are classified as phospholipase A, B, C, and D. Phospholipases play a role in cell regulation, proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCC development. PLs inhibitors constitute potential new therapeutic targets in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and HCC. This chapter examines the therapeutic roles of PL inhibitors in HCC treatment options.