ICMT deficiency ameliorates weight loss and mortality, but not tumor formation in a mouse model of liver cancer

In this study, we utilized conditional gene modifications in the liver and demonstrated that Icmt deletion did not prevent BRAFV600E-induced hepatomegaly and HCC
development, but significantly improved survival and reduced body weight loss. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed extensive changes in gene and protein expression, including alterations in pathways related to metabolism, differentiation, and coagulation. Mechanistically, Icmt deletion alleviated hepatic vascular congestion. Our findings suggest that while ICMT inhibition
may not be effective as a direct anti-tumor strategy for HCC, it could have therapeutic value in reducing vascular pathology associated with liver disease.