Radiomics and molecular analysis: Bridging the gap for predicting hepatocellular carcinoma prognosis

Figure 1 Mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway and its interaction with EZH2 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma: Mechanisms and implications. Illustration of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and its interaction with EZH2 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The figure highlights key components of the mTOR pathway, including upstream regulators (e.g., PI3K/AKT) and downstream effectors that influence cell proliferation, survival, and metabolism. EZH2, a critical epigenetic regulator, is shown to be modulated by mTOR signaling, contributing to tumor progression, invasion, and poor prognosis in HCC. The interplay between mTOR activation and elevated EZH2 expression suggests a mechanistic link that promotes cancer aggressiveness, making these pathways potential therapeutic targets. Arrows indicate signaling cascades and molecular interactions involved in HCC development. HCC: Hepatocellular carcinoma; IRS: Insulin receptor substrate; PI3K: Phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PTEN: Phosphatase and tensin homologue; PDK1: 3-Phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1; AKT: Protein kinase B; mTOR: Mammalian target of rapamycin; EZH2: Enhancer of zeste homolog 2.