Evaluating the scope of human leukocyte antigen polymorphisms influencing hepatitis B virus-related liver cancer and cirrhosis through multi-clustering analysis.

Hepatitis B virus remains a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, with genetic polymorphisms and mutations influencing immune responses and disease progression. Nguyen et al present novel findings on specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles, including rs2856718 of HLA-DQ and rs3077 and rs9277535 of HLA-DP, which may predispose individuals to cirrhosis and liver cancer, based on multi-clustering analysis. Here, we discuss the feasibility of this approach and identify key areas for further investigation, aiming to offer insights for advancing clinical practice and research in liver disease and related cancers.