Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatocellular Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Breakthroughs in Therapeutic Approaches

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most prevalent and among the most hazardous viral infectious agents causing liver disease in humans. It is a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, with an estimated 296 million people living with chronic HBV infection. In 2019, over 800,000 deaths were attributed to HBV. Despite vaccination efforts since the 1980s, HBV infection remains a significant global health burden. HBV’s role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is well-established. Various oncogenic and molecular mechanisms have been proposed, highlighting the virus’s ability to induce cancer through persistent infection, inflammation, and the involvement of key viral proteins, such as the oncogenic X protein. This multifunctional element interferes with diverse cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways. This review consolidates up-to-date information on these pathogenic mechanisms, shedding light on the intricate relationship between HBV and cancer development. Additionally, we explore some novel treatment proposals in the ongoing efforts to address this serious global health issue.