Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026

A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
[Hepatocellular carcinoma]
Tatsuya Yamashita1, Kuniaki Arai, Shuichi Kaneko
1Department of Community Medicine and Medical Education, Kanazawa University.
Abstract:
One of the advances in recent years about the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma is clinical evidence of the molecular target drug, sorafenib. Although sorafenib shows little anti-tumor effect indicated by tumor shrinkage, it has inhibitory effect of tumor development to be the first drug shown to extend survival in hepatocellular carcinoma. Because its side effects are different than the traditional cytotoxic drugs, to better understand the side effects and its treatment is necessary for sorafenib treatment. More appropriate use of sorafenib is recommended because of serious adverse events or deaths in Japan. Position of sorafenib in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma among hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy and transcatheter arterial embolization is not yet clear. Many clinical trials of molecular target drugs against hepatocellular carcinoma are underway.
Insights
Sorafenib, a molecular targeted drug, is the first to extend survival for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Understanding and managing its unique side effects is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary cancers
- Molecular targeted therapy
- Oncology
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a significant global health challenge.
- Traditional treatments for HCC have limitations in efficacy and patient survival.
- Recent advancements include the development of molecular targeted drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical evidence and role of sorafenib in HCC treatment.
- To highlight the importance of understanding and managing sorafenib's side effects.
- To discuss the current position of sorafenib within the broader HCC treatment landscape.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical evidence and trial data for sorafenib in HCC.
- Analysis of sorafenib's efficacy in extending patient survival.
- Examination of sorafenib's distinct side effect profile compared to cytotoxic drugs.
Main Results:
- Sorafenib is the first drug demonstrated to extend survival in HCC.
- While tumor shrinkage is limited, sorafenib effectively inhibits tumor development.
- Serious adverse events necessitate careful management and appropriate use of sorafenib.
Conclusions:
- Sorafenib represents a significant advance in HCC treatment by improving survival.
- Further research and clinical trials are essential for molecular targeted drugs in HCC.
- Optimal integration of sorafenib with other therapies like TACE and HAIC requires further clarification.
Related Concept Videos
Hepatitis
Cirrhosis I: Introduction
Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not related to...
Cirrhosis II: Pathophysiology
Hepatic Portal System
At its core, the hepatic portal vein is the result of a confluence of the superior and inferior mesenteric veins along with the splenic vein. Each of these veins has a unique role. The superior mesenteric vein is responsible...

