TIMER results presented ZDHHC16 was significantly positive correlated to CD274 (r = 0.132; p = 1.41e − 02), CTLA4 (r = 0.254; p = 1.79e − 06), HAVCR2 (r = 0.231; p = 1.50e − 05) and PDCD1 (r = 0.291; p = 3.66e − 08; Fig. 6h–k), suggesting ZDHHC16 may exert a vital player in ICB treatment of HCC. Here, PDCD1 is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.