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Updated: May 20, 2026

A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Hepatocellualar carcinoma serum markers
Gaetano Bertino1, Annalisa Ardiri, Michele Malaguarnera
1Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Policlinic of Catania, University of Catania, Catania, Italy. gaetanobertinounict@libero.it
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection is challenging due to limitations of current screening methods like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Combining multiple biomarkers improves early HCC detection sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology and Oncology
- Biomarker Discovery
- Cancer Diagnostics
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignancy with poor prognosis, often diagnosed late.
- Current screening methods, including serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and ultrasound, have limitations in sensitivity and specificity.
- Several novel biomarkers have been proposed for earlier and more accurate HCC detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and describe the production mechanisms of proposed HCC biomarkers.
- To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic roles of these novel biomarkers.
- To assess the potential of combined biomarker strategies for improving HCC detection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on HCC biomarkers.
- Analysis of production mechanisms, diagnostic accuracy, and prognostic value.
- Evaluation of combined biomarker approaches for HCC screening.
Main Results:
- Serum AFP and ultrasound lack optimal sensitivity and specificity for early HCC detection.
- Novel biomarkers including AFP-L3, DCP, GPC-3, and OPN show promise.
- Combining multiple biomarkers significantly enhances the sensitivity for detecting HCC.
- Some biomarkers exhibit pro-angiogenic and tumor growth-promoting activities.
Conclusions:
- No single biomarker is currently optimal for HCC detection.
- Combination of multiple biomarkers offers improved sensitivity for early HCC diagnosis.
- Further research into biomarker roles in angiogenesis and tumor growth is warranted.
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