Finally, CD8+ T cells and, most importantly, the hepatic steatosis-induced CXCR6+ subset, were associated with liver injury and potentiated the transition of NASH to HCC via the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and direct hepatocyte killing in a tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-dependent manner [55]. This evidence concerns the gene TNF and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.