Mouse and human HCC samples with low pERK expression showed noticeable increases in intratumor CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes with robust inflammatory infiltrating cells and expression of PD-1, suggesting that anti-PD-1 immunotherapy may supplement sorafenib in HCC patients by targeting sorafenib-resistant cancer cells and overcoming drug resistance. The gene discussed is EIF2AK3; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.