Comprehensive analysis of transcriptome profiles in hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Virology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer death with late presentation.
• Limited treatment options necessitate better understanding for early biomarkers and novel therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively analyze host and HBV transcripts in HCC using deep transcriptome sequencing.
• To identify differential gene expression, somatic mutations, and HBV-human chimeric transcripts in HCC.

Main Methods:

• Deep transcriptome sequencing of tumor and non-tumor liver tissues from HCC patients.
• Analysis of differential gene expression, somatic mutations, and HBV-human chimeric transcripts.
• Prediction of deleterious mutations and correlation with clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• TP73 was identified as a key upregulated gene modulating apoptosis.
• Genes involved in cell division and transcriptional regulation were upregulated in poor prognosis tumors.
• HBV-human fusion transcripts were common, with specific integration sites and potential roles in tumorigenesis.

Conclusions:

• Transcriptome sequencing identified key molecules and pathways deregulated in HCC.
• Selective expression of functional HBV-human chimeric transcripts may occur during tumorigenesis.
• Findings provide insights into HCC pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies.