In contrast, iCAFs secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)) to fuel tumor growth, while ApCAFs modulate adaptive immunity through antigen presentation, thereby shaping therapeutic responses in HCC (211, 214, 215). The gene discussed is CXCL12; the disease is neoplasm.