Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 25, 2026
Author Spotlight: Investigating Liver Cancer Pathogenesis Using Patient-Derived Organoids
Published on: August 18, 2023
Identification of novel blood-based HCC-specific diagnostic biomarkers for human hepatocellular carcinoma
Li Yin1, Na He1, Chuizhe Chen1
1a Laboratory of Tropical Biomedicine and Biotechnology, School of Tropical Medicine and Laboratory Medicine , Hainan Medical University , Haikou , Hainan , China.
Introduction:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks fourth in global cancer mortality, accounting for 8.2% of all cancer deaths. Early detection of HCC has a significant impact on clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify blood-based biomarkers which are HCC-specific.
Methods:
Comprehensive gene expression raw data of purified RNA of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was downloaded from GEO and was then analyzed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HCC were screened and the method of weighted gene co-expression network analysis was applied to identify candidate blood-based biomarkers associated with HCC.
Results:
Three modules closely related to HCC were screened using WGCNA. Nuclear localization signal (NLS)-bearing protein import into nucleus biological process was the most significant enriched physiological process identified by MCODE, and 3 genes (DICER1, GMPS and NCOR1) were selected as biomarkers.
Conclusion:
In our study, three novel blood-based HCC-specific diagnostic biomarkers for human hepatocellular carcinoma were identified. These findings may contribute to the non-invasive detection of early HCC patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers
The essential diagnostic tools for detecting myocardial necrosis and monitoring individuals suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include:
Troponins
Troponins, particularly cardiac troponins I and T, are the most precise and sensitive markers of myocardial injury. They are detectable within 4-6 hours of myocardial injury and remain...
01:58Cell Specific Gene Expression
01:16Specific Heat
For example, increasing the temperature of one gram of water by 1°C requires one calorie of heat energy and can be written as 1 cal/g-°C, or...
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:15Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests
The edrophonium test is a diagnostic tool for myasthenia gravis. It involves...