Core Viewpoint - The research reveals a novel metabolic interaction between tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, identifying TAM as a source of acetate that drives HCC metastasis through the synthesis of acetyl-CoA [2][3][4]. Group 1: Research Findings - TAM secretes acetate, which is then taken up by HCC cells to support their acetate accumulation [3]. - Lactate produced by HCC cells activates lipid peroxidation-ALDH2 pathways in TAM, promoting the secretion of acetate [3]. - In a mouse model of HCC, knocking out the ALDH2 gene in TAM reduces acetate levels in HCC cells and decreases lung metastasis of HCC [3][4]. Group 2: Implications - The study positions TAM as a critical acetate supply source that drives HCC metastasis, suggesting potential intervention targets in the tumor microenvironment [2][4].