DCA also activates the mTOR pathway in hepatocytes and induces the production of TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as the infiltration of inflammatory macrophages, which in turn promotes the development of HCC.393 Surprisingly, SCFAs in cooperation with abnormal secondary bile acid profiles can enhance HCC susceptibility in dysbiotic mice.32 In addition, the enterohepatic circulation of secondary bile acids also modulates hepatic NKT cell populations to influence HCC. This evidence concerns the gene MTOR and hepatocellular carcinoma.