MicroRNAs and SerpinB3 in hepatocellular carcinoma
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Updated: May 3, 2026
MicroRNA Amplification and Recognition through Locked-nucleic-acid In situ Hybridization as a Novel Detection and Quantification Method
Published on: October 7, 2025
Cristian Turato1, Davide Simonato1, Santina Quarta1
1Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padua, Italy.
Abstract:
miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs which target complementary mRNA sequences, usually resulting in gene silencing. They can exhibit oncogenic or tumor suppressor properties, modulating cell homeostasis. Several data have documented that miRNAs are typically deregulated in different types of cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Some of the miRNAs such as miR-122, miR-221, miR-1 and miR-21 have been found to repress post-transcriptionally the expression of genes involved in cell cycle regulation, cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell migration and invasion. In HCC serum levels of miR-122, miR-221 and miR-16 have been described deregulated, suggesting that they may be used as molecular targets for early detection, prognosis and treatment. The ov-serpin SerpinB3 was found previously increased in liver tumor cancers and associated with apoptosis resistance, increased cell proliferation and invasiveness. Recent data indicate that this serpin may enhance its oncogenic potential through inhibition of several tumor suppressive miRNAs, typically described in HCC.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Aberrant miRNA expression and the serpin SerpinB3 play crucial roles in HCC development and progression, offering potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression, often implicated in cancer.
- Dysregulated miRNAs are observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), influencing cell homeostasis, proliferation, and apoptosis.
- The ov-serpin SerpinB3 is elevated in liver tumors, promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of deregulated miRNAs and SerpinB3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- To explore the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for HCC early detection, prognosis, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of miRNA expression profiles in HCC.
- Assessment of SerpinB3 levels and its correlation with miRNA deregulation.
- Investigating the impact of SerpinB3 on tumor-suppressive miRNAs in HCC.
Main Results:
- Specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-122, miR-221, miR-16) are deregulated in HCC serum.
- Increased SerpinB3 levels are linked to apoptosis resistance, proliferation, and invasiveness in liver tumors.
- SerpinB3 may enhance oncogenesis by inhibiting tumor-suppressive miRNAs in HCC.
Conclusions:
- Deregulated miRNAs and SerpinB3 are significant in HCC pathogenesis.
- These molecules represent potential biomarkers for HCC diagnosis and therapeutic targets.
- Targeting SerpinB3 or restoring miRNA function could offer novel HCC treatment strategies.
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