IKK2-mediated NF-κB activation can prevent liver cell damage and hinder HCC development, yet the loss of factors such as RIPK1 and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) may lead to inhibited NF-κB activity and subsequent spontaneous development of HCC [16, 17]. Here, IKBKB is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.