Reappraisal of the Roles of the Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

HCC remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death globally. The main challenges in treatments of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) primarily arise from high rates of postoperative recurrence and the limited efficacy in treating advanced-stage patients. Various signaling pathways involved in HCC have been reported. Among them, the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is crucial. The presence of SHH ligands is identified in approximately 60% of HCC tumor tissues, including tumor nests. PTCH-1 and GLI-1 are detected in more than half of HCC tissues, while GLI-2 is found in over 84% of HCC tissues. The SHH signaling pathway (including canonical and non-canonical) is involved in different aspects of HCC, including hepatocarcinogenesis, tumor growth, tumor invasiveness, progression, and migration. The SHH signaling pathway also contributes to recurrence, metastasis, modulation of the cancer microenvironment, and sustaining cancer stem cells. It also affects the resistance of HCC cells to chemotherapy, target therapy, and radiotherapy. Reappraisal of the roles of the SHH signaling pathway in HCC may trigger some novel therapies for HCC.

Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer Stem Cells of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) of HCC are responsible for tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, recurrence, chemoresistance, target therapy resistance and radioresistance. The reported main surface markers used to identify liver CSCs include epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM), cluster differentiation 90 (CD90), CD44 and CD133. The main molecular signaling pathways include the Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factors-β (TGF-β), sonic hedgehog (SHH), PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Notch. Patients with EpCAM-positive alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-positive HCC are usually young but have advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages. CD90-positive HCCs are usually poorly differentiated with worse prognosis. Those with CD44-positive HCC cells develop early metastases. Those with CD133 expression have a higher recurrence rate and a shorter overall survival. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway triggers angiogenesis, tumor infiltration and metastasis through the enhancement of angiogenic factors. All CD133+ liver CSCs, CD133+/EpCAM+ liver CSCs and CD44+ liver CSCs contribute to sorafenib resistance. SHH signaling could protect HCC cells against ionizing radiation in an autocrine manner. Reducing the CSC population of HCC is crucial for the improvement of the therapy of advanced HCC. However, targeting CSCs of HCC is still challenging.

Liver collision tumor of primary hepatocellular carcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma: A rare case report

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can occasionally develop with other non-HCC cell types, either in a combined type or collision type. A collision tumor is defined as two histopathologically distinct tumors of the same organ lacking a clear transition zone. Hepatic collision tumors are rare. Among them, “hepatocellular carcinoma-hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma” (HCC-NEC) collision tumors are especially rare and information about them is rarely published.

CASE SUMMARY

A 48-year-old man with typical findings of HCC underwent consecutive therapies, including radiofrequency ablation and embolization prior to resection. Diagnosis of the HCC-NEC collision tumor in the right liver and another HCC in the left liver was established following surgical resection. The patient displayed NEC metastasis following resection and succumbed to septicemia after 2 more rounds of chemotherapy. To our knowledge, this is the 25^th reported case of mixed HCC-NEC tumor. The rarity of HCC-NEC collision tumors and the absence of diagnostic criteria make it difficult to differentiate this condition from simple liver tumors, especially in patients with chronic liver disease.

CONCLUSION

Our case highlights the difficulty in accurately diagnosing HCC-NEC in the absence of histological evidence. The prognosis is poor for this condition, although ultrasound-guided liver biopsy can be helpful to establish a prompt diagnosis. Further accumulation of such cases could help establish an accurate diagnosis earlier. Early discovery of NEC may allow for better treatment strategies and better prognoses.

MAPK regulates the immune responses in liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver diseases causes approximately 2 million death per year worldwide. Aberrant apoptosis is associated with the progression of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, even for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is one of major causes of cancer death worldwide due to high heterogeneity and recurrence. Immune scores could be used to link HCC disease-free survival and to identify several microenvironment-related genes. MAPK signaling plays an important role in liver fibrogenesis and HCC. ERK activation is associated with aggressive HCC, resulting in short overall survival. In this study, the immune responses of liver fibrosis and HCC mediated by ERK signaling were investigated.

Both WT and Erk2 deficient mice were fed with choline-deficient diet to induce liver cirrhosis. Erk2 deficient livers have less degree of liver cirrhosis than WT livers. Our preliminary data suggested there was a significant increasement in the percentages of regulatory T cells in Erk2 deficient splenocytes. The percentages of follicular T cells were similar in WT and Erk2 deficient splenocytes. However, there was no significant differences in Erk2 deficient hepatic CD4 T cells for regulatory T cells and follicular T cells. In addition, Egr1 is one of ERK signaling downstream transcription factors. In HCC, there were about 10-fold differences in gene expression in the Egr1high and Egr1low group and the differential gene expression was identified. In hepatotoxicity, there was about more than 100 genes involved in HCC, 50~70 genes in liver cirrhosis, liver inflammation and liver necrosis/cell death. Therefore, MAPK signaling plays an important role in regulating the immune responses in the liver cirrhosis and HCC progression.

The Role of Endoglin in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Endoglin (CD105) is a type-1 integral transmembrane glycoprotein and coreceptor for transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) ligands. The endoglin/TGF-β signaling pathway regulates hemostasis, cell proliferation/migration, extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis contributes to early progression, invasion, postoperative recurrence, and metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most widespread malignancies globally. Endoglin is overexpressed in newly formed HCC microvessels. It increases microvessel density in cirrhotic and regenerative HCC nodules. In addition, circulating endoglin is present in HCC patients, suggesting potential for use as a diagnostic or prognostic factor. HCC angiogenesis is dynamic and endoglin expression varies by stage. TRC105 (carotuximab) is an antibody against endoglin, and three of its clinical trials were related to liver diseases. A partial response was achieved when combining TRC105 with sorafenib. Although antiangiogenic therapy still carries some risks, combination therapy with endoglin inhibitors or other targeted therapies holds promise.

Liver Fibrosis and Inflammation under the Control of ERK2

Chronic liver injury could lead the formation of liver fibrosis, eventually some would develop to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the leading malignancies worldwide. The aim of the study is to dissect the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) signaling in liver fibrosis and inflammation. The choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diet could lead to fatty livers and generate oval cells, activate hepatocyte stellate cell (HSC) and recruit immune cells as the liver fibrosis model mice. WT and ERK2 deficient (ERK2^−/−) mice were compared in terms of liver weight/body weight, liver function, liver fibrosis markers and the differential gene expression in hepatotoxicity. ERK2^−/− mice display the less degree of liver fibrosis when compared to WT mice. The protein level of alpha smooth muscle (α-SMA) was reduced and several hepatocellular carcinoma-related genes such as MMP9, FoxM1 were down-regulated. In addition, the cell proliferation and the percentages of activated T cells were reduced in ERK2^−/− mice upon liver injury. Therefore, ERK2 plays an important role in regulating liver cirrhosis and inflammation.

Sonic Hedgehog Signaling in Organogenesis, Tumors, and Tumor Microenvironments

During mammalian embryonic development, primary cilia transduce and regulate several signaling pathways. Among the various pathways, Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is one of the most significant. SHH signaling remains quiescent in adult mammalian tissues. However, in multiple adult tissues, it becomes active during differentiation, proliferation, and maintenance. Moreover, aberrant activation of SHH signaling occurs in cancers of the skin, brain, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, stomach, colon, breast, lung, prostate, and hematological malignancies. Recent studies have shown that the tumor microenvironment or stroma could affect tumor development and metastasis. One hypothesis has been proposed, claiming that the pancreatic epithelia secretes SHH that is essential in establishing and regulating the pancreatic tumor microenvironment in promoting cancer progression. The SHH signaling pathway is also activated in the cancer stem cells (CSC) of several neoplasms. The self-renewal of CSC is regulated by the SHH/Smoothened receptor (SMO)/Glioma-associated oncogene homolog I (GLI) signaling pathway. Combined use of SHH signaling inhibitors and chemotherapy/radiation therapy/immunotherapy is therefore key in targeting CSCs.

Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway as a potential target to inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Hepatocarcinogenesis involves numerous interlinked factors and processes, including the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, which participates in the carcinogenesis, progression, invasiveness, recurrence and cancer stem cell maintenance of HCC. The Shh signaling pathway is activated by ligands that bind to their receptor protein, Protein patched homolog (Ptch). The process of Shh ligand binding to Ptch weakens the inhibition of smoothened homolog (SMO) and activates signal transduction via glioma-associated oncogene homolog (Gli) transcription factors. The overexpression of Shh pathway molecules, including Shh, Ptch-1, Gli and SMO has been indicated in patients with HCC. It has also been suggested that the Shh signaling pathway exhibits cross-talk between numerous other signaling pathways. The inactivation of the Shh signaling pathway reduces HCC growth, increases radio-sensitivity and increases the beneficial effect of chemotherapy in HCC treatment. Therefore, inhibition of the Shh pathway may be an effective target therapy that can be used in the treatment of HCC.

Liver Transplantation After Downstagings of Ruptured Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhotic Liver: Is It Advisable? A Case Report

Spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), defined as T4 in TNM stage by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (eighth edition), is a serious life-threatening complication. Effective treatment remains challenging because of a high 1-month mortality, a short median survival, and the potential of peritoneal metastasis. We reported on a case that received a living related donor liver transplantation (LDLT) after successful consecutive downstaging therapies. A 63-year-old man with alcohol-related liver cirrhosis and multiple HCC developed spontaneous rupture and hemoperitoneum. He received 3 sessions of transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization and target therapy with sorafenib. Computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging after 11 months of treatment showed that the patient's HCCs fulfilled the Milan criteria and the University of California San Francisco criteria prior to LDLT. The perioperative course was rather smooth. After discharge, interval follow-up computed tomography studies of chest and liver and a whole-body bone scan showed no tumor recurrence or metastasis up to 20 months post-operation. Successful downstaging therapies of ruptured HCC to fulfill Milan criteria to receive liver transplantation is advisable in highly selected patients.

Novel use of percutaneous thrombosuction to rescue the early thrombosis of the conduit vein graft after living donor liver transplantation

A 54-year-old woman with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma received a living donor liver transplant. Thrombosis of the segmental hepatic vein occurred on postoperative day 7. We undertook percutaneous catheter thrombosuction under local anesthesia to extract the thrombus successfully without re-exploration. Thrombosuction has been used for thrombosis of the cardiovascular system, limbs, and brain. We first used it in hepatic venous thrombus after liver transplantation. This procedure is simple, less invasive, feasible, safe, repeatable, and effective.

Laparoscopic donor hepatectomy

Laparoscopic liver resection has been applied to treat most indications for liver resection during the past two decades. According to the literature, patient numbers have increased exponentially as a result, and surgical difficulty has increased as well. In expert centers, laparoscopic anatomical hemihepatectomy and major liver resection more than 3 segments have become the acceptable treatment. Moreover, with surgical innovations and accumulated experience, living donor liver transplantation has become an established treatment choice for patients on the transplant waiting list. It is even considered an inevitable choice in regions with limited access to organs from deceased donors. However, significant morbidity and rare but catastrophic mortality are associated with donor hepatectomy and remain major concerns. Therefore, to decrease the incidence of complications, a minimally invasive approach in donor hepatectomy was adopted in the early 2000s. Initially, a minimally invasive approach was used for left lateral sectionectomy for pediatric liver transplant, then for laparoscopy-assisted hemihepatectomy and pure laparoscopic/robotic right donor hepatectomy, and more recently, for adult living donor liver transplantation. The extent of procedure complexity and potential complications depends on the approach and the size of the graft to be harvested. Early results from expert teams have seemed promising in terms of shortened donor recovery and improved perioperative outcomes. However, the combination of these two highly sophisticated surgical procedures raise more concerns about donor safety, especially with regard to unexpected events during the operation. A high level of evidence is very difficult to achieve in this highly specialized surgical practice with limited penetration. Therefore, an international registry has been suggested to determine the risks and benefits before the use of laparoscopic right donor hepatectomy spreads.

Tropism of liver epithelial cells toward hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro and in vivo with altering gene expression of cancer stem cells

BACKGROUND

Rat liver epithelial (RLE) cells could inhibit the proliferation and invasiveness of hepatoma cells in vitro. This study is to understand the tropism and the effect of RLE cells on mouse hepatoma cells both in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

RLE cells were isolated from new-born rats and characterized their stem cell markers. Co-culture and HCC mouse model was established to detect therapeutic effect of RLE cells.

RESULTS

RLE cells (including Thy-1⁺ RLE cells, Thy-1^- RLE cells, RLE cells) displayed a selective tropism toward ML-1 hepatoma cells both in vitro and in vivo. They altered the gene expression of some cancer stem cell markers in the liver tumor.

CONCLUSION

Liver epithelial cells have a selective tropism toward HCC in vitro and in vivo. They could alter the gene expression of cancer stem cells.

Role of C-X-C chemokine ligand 12/C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma

The efficacy of the current non-surgical treatments for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains limited and novel treatments are required to improve patient outcomes. The majority of HCCs develop from chronically damaged tissue that contains a high degree of inflammation and fibrosis, which promotes tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Understanding the interaction between stromal components and cancer cells (and the signaling pathways involved in this interaction) could aid the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Numerous studies have demonstrated a marked association between high C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) expression and the invasiveness, progression and metastasis of HCC. The present review will investigate the different roles of CXCR4 in the progression of HCC and discuss possible future treatments. Through the C-X-C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/CXCR4 signaling pathway, ephrin A1 activation enhances the migration of endothelial progenitor cells to HCC to enable the neovascularization of tumors. There is an association between nuclear CXCR4 expression and the lymph node metastasis of HCC to distant areas. CXCR4 enhances cell migration in vitro and cell homing in vivo. CXCR4 levels are concentrated at the border of a tumor and in perivascular areas, inducing invasive behavior. The binding of CXCL12 to CXCR4 activates intracellular signaling pathways and induces crosstalk with transforming growth factor-β signaling, which enhances the migration of cancer cells. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis also activates expression of matrix metalloproteinase 10, which further stimulates migration. CXCR4 is likely to crosstalk with the sonic hedgehog signaling pathway, contributing to tumor invasiveness and supporting the cancer stem-cell population; as a result, CXCR4 can be regarded as a cancer stem-cell marker. CXCR4 influences interstitial fluid flow-induced invasion. CXCR4 expression and HCC cell migration are promoted by α-fetoprotein, which activates AKT/mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling. CXCR4 also has the potential to affect sorafenib treatment for HCC. Targeting the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling pathway may, therefore, be a promising strategy in HCC treatment.

Graft calcification caused by a torsion of the hepatic vein after a living-related donor liver transplantation

 The torsion of vessels after liver transplantation rarely occurs. Likewise, calcification of a liver graft has seldom been reported. This report details a case which had torsion of the left hepatic vein on the seventh day after living-related donor liver transplantation. The torsion was reduced soon after re-exploration; however, congestion with partial necrosis of the graft occurred. On the follow-up imaging studies, some resolution of necrosis and graft regeneration were found, yet geographic calcification of the liver graft appeared.The patient died of pneumonia after 13 weeks, post-operation. The avoidance such torsion of vessels is necessary and important.

Liver epithelial cells inhibit proliferation and invasiveness of hepatoma cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a worldwide malignancy with poor prognosis. Liver progenitors or stem cells could be a potential therapy for HCC treatment since they migrate toward tumors. Rat liver epithelial (RLE) cells have both progenitor and stem cell-like properties. Therefore, our study elucidated the therapeutic effect of RLE cells in rat hepatoma cells. RLE cells were isolated from 10-day old rats and characterized for stem cell marker expression. RLE cells and rat hepatoma cells (H4-IIE-C3 cells) were co-cultured and divided into four groups with different ratios of RLE and hepatoma cells. Group A had only rat hepatoma cells as a control group. The ratios of rat hepatoma and RLE cells in group B, C and D were 5:1, 1:1 and 1:5, respectively. Effective inhibition of cell proliferation and migration was found in group D when compared to group A. There was a significant decrease in Bcl2 expression and increase in late apoptosis of rat hepatoma cells when adding more RLE cells. RLE cells reduced cell proliferation and migration of rat hepatoma cells. These results suggested that RLE cells could be used as a potential cell therapy.

Heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma contributes to cancer progression

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous disease displaying differences in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix proteins, the immune microenvironment and tumor cell populations. Additionally, genetic variations and epigenetic changes of HCC cells could lead to aberrant signaling pathways, induce cancer stem cells and enhance tumor progression. Thus, the heterogeneity in HCC contributes to disease progression and a better understanding of its heterogeneity will greatly aid in the development of strategies for the HCC treatment.

Loss of speech after living-related donor liver transplantation: detection of the lesion by diffusion tensor image

INTRODUCTION

Loss of speech after living-related liver transplantation is uncommon. Either immunosuppressive agents, related sequelae, or a neurological event may cause it.

CASE REPORT

A 46-year-old man developed dysarthria and dysphagia on the 10th day after living-related donor liver transplantation for alcoholic cirrhosis with Child-Pugh class C. Brain magnetic resonance images and electroencephalograms could not detect any lesion, but the diffusion tensor image showed a subacute lacunar infarction at right midbrain. The patient's speech improved 1 month after rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Some unexpected neurological events, such as loss of speech, may occur after liver transplantation. The differential diagnosis becomes very important before active treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging supplemented with diffusion tensor imaging is an effective imaging study in establishing the diagnosis.

Robotic left hepatectomy with revision of hepaticojejunostomy

Laparoscopic hepatectomy and hepaticojejunostomy remain a surgical challenge despite the recent advances in minimally invasive surgery. A robotic surgical system has been developed to overcome the inherent limitations of the traditional laparoscopic approach. However, techniques of robotic hepatectomy have not been well described, and a description of robotic major hepatectomy with bilioenteric anastomosis can be found only in two previous reports. Here, we report a 33-year-old man with a history of choledochocyst resection. The patient experienced repeat cholangitis with left hepatolithiasis during follow-up. Robotic left hepatectomy and revision of hepaticojejunostomy were performed smoothly. The patient recovered uneventfully and remained symptoms-free at a follow-up of 20 months. The robotic approach is beneficial in the fine dissection of the hepatic hilum and revision of hepaticojejunostomy in this particular patient.

High expression of Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway genes indicates a risk of recurrence of breast carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Abnormal activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway contributing to carcinogenesis of some organs has been reported in the literature. We hypothesize that activation of the SHH pathway contributes to the recurrence of breast carcinoma.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients with invasive breast carcinoma following curative resection were enrolled in this prospective study. The ratios of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression for Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), patched homolog-1 (PTCH-1), glioma-associated oncogene-1 (GLI-1), and smoothened (SMOH) were measured between breast carcinoma tissue and paired noncancerous breast tissue. These ratios were compared with their clinicopathologic characteristics. These factors and the mRNA ratios were compared between patients with recurrence and those without recurrence.

RESULTS

The size of the invasive cancer correlated significantly with the ratio of SHH mRNA (P=0.001), that of PTCH-1 mRNA (P=0.005), and that of SMOH mRNA (P=0.021). Lymph node involvement correlated significantly with the ratio of SMOH mRNA (P=0.041). The correlation between Her-2 neu and the ratio of GLI-1 mRNA was statistically significant (P=0.012). Each ratio of mRNA of SHH, PTCH-1, GLI-1, and SMOH correlated significantly with cancer recurrence (P<0.001 for each).

CONCLUSION

We suggest that high expression of SHH mRNA, PTCH-1 mRNA, GLI-1 mRNA, and SMOH mRNA in breast cancer tissue correlates with invasiveness and is a potential biomarker to predict postoperative recurrence.

Inorganic arsenic trioxide induces gap junction loss in association with the downregulation of connexin43 and E-cadherin in rat hepatic "stem-like" cells

Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic trioxide causes tumors of the skin, urinary bladder, lung, and liver. Several cancer initiators and promoters have been shown to alter cell-cell signaling by interference with gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and/or modulation of cell adhesion molecules, such as connexin43 (Cx43), E-cadherin, and β-catenin. The aim of this study was to determine whether the disruption of cell-cell interactions occurs in liver epithelial cells after exposure to arsenic trioxide. WB-F344 cells were treated with arsenic trioxide (6.25-50 μM) for up to 8 hours, and gap junction function was analyzed using the scrape-load/dye transfer assay. In addition, the changes in mRNA and protein levels of Cx43, E-cadherin, and β-catenin were determined. A significant dose- and time-dependent decrease in GJIC was observed when WB-F344 cells were exposed to arsenic trioxide (p < 0.05). Consistent with the inhibition of GJIC, cells' exposure to arsenic trioxide resulted in dose- and time-dependent decreases in Cx43 and E-cadherin mRNA expression and protein levels. However, arsenic trioxide did not alter the mRNA or protein levels of β-catenin. In an immunofluorescence study, nuclei were heavily stained with anti-β-catenin antibody, indicating significant nuclear translocation. In this study, we also demonstrated that arsenic trioxide-induced GJIC loss was a reversible process. Taken together, these data support the hypothesis that disruption of cell-cell communication may contribute to the tumor-promoting effect of inorganic arsenic trioxide.

Activation of the sonic hedgehog signaling pathway occurs in the CD133 positive cells of mouse liver cancer Hepa 1-6 cells

Background

The important role of cancer stem cells in carcinogenesis has been emphasized in research. CD133+ cells have been mentioned as liver cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Some researchers have proposed that the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis and that the pathway activation occurs mainly in cancer stem cells. We investigated whether the activation of the Shh pathway occurs in CD133+ cells from liver cancer.

Materials and methods

We used magnetic sorting to isolate CD133+ cells from mouse cancer Hepa 1–6 cells. To examine the clonogenicity, cell culture and soft agar colony formation assay were performed between CD133+ and CD133− cells. To study the activation of the Shh pathway, we examined the mRNA expressions of Shh, patched homolog 1 (Ptch-1), glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli-1), and smoothened homolog (Smoh) by real-time polymerase chain reaction of both CD133+ and CD133− cells.

Results

The number (mean ± standard deviation) of colonies of CD133+ cells and CD133− cells was 1,031.0 ± 104.7 and 119.7 ± 17.6 respectively. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Their clonogenicity was 13.7% ± 1.4% and 1.6% ± 0.2% respectively with a statistically significant difference found (P < 0.001). CD133+ cells and CD133− cells were found to have statistically significant differences in Shh mRNA and Smoh mRNA (P = 0.005 and P = 0.043 respectively).

Conclusion

CD133+ Hepa 1–6 cells have a significantly higher colony proliferation and clonogenicity. The Shh pathway is activated in these cells that harbor stem cell features, with an underexpression of Shh mRNA and an overexpression of Smoh mRNA. Blockade of the Shh signaling pathway may be a potential therapeutic strategy for hepatocarcinogenesis.

Laparoscopic caudate hepatectomy for cancer--an innovative approach to the no-man's land

BACKGROUND

Caudate hepatectomy remains a surgical challenge in spite of recent advances in laparoscopic technique. Hepatic tumor in the caudate lobe is usually deeply located in the center of the liver and close to the vena cava and hepatic hilum. Thus, lesion in this region was considered as a contraindication of laparoscopic hepatectomy. Only sporadic reports could be found in the literature. The aim of this study is to review the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic hepatectomy for lesions in the caudate lobe.

METHODS

Nine consecutive patients with caudate hepatic tumor received laparoscopic caudate hepatectomy in our institute from February 2006 to July 2010. One patient with hepatic adenoma was excluded from the analysis. Demographic data, intraoperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes of the remaining eight patients were assessed.

RESULTS

All procedure for these eight patients with caudate hepatic tumors (size 0.9-4.5 cm) were completed with totally laparoscopic technique except one in which additional left hepatectomy was also done. The average operative time was 254 min (range 210-345 min) and estimated blood loss was 202 ml (range 10-1,000 ml), and average length of postoperative hospital stay was 6.9 days (range 4-11 days). There was no perioperative complications and patient mortality in this series.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience demonstrated that laparoscopic hepatectomy is a safe and feasible procedure for caudate hepatic tumors in selected patients.

Is less than 5 mm as the narrowest surgical margin width in central resections of hepatocellular carcinoma justified?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate whether <5 mm as the narrowest margin width may negatively affect a patient's outcome.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was designed. From January 1994 to July 2010, 196 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing central hepatectomy were divided into group A (n = 172; narrowest margin, ≥5 to <10 mm) and group B (n = 24; narrowest margin, <5 mm), and outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

Significant differences between groups A and B included tumor size (P = .057), infiltrative border (P = .021), satellite lesions (P = .021), and major perivascular abutment (P = .028). Marginal recurrence occurred in 50% of the patients in group B but none of those in group A (P < .001). There were no significant differences between the groups regarding recurrence, recurrence-related death, disease-free survival, and speed of recurrence, but a borderline significant difference was found regarding the cumulative probability of overall survival. After excluding early recurrence (within 1 year), group B had significantly lower cumulative probabilities of disease-free survival (P = .020) and overall survival (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In central resections, narrowest margin width of <5 mm does not negatively affect recurrence and overall survival. However, it increases perimargin recurrence and inversely affects late outcomes.

Blockade of the sonic hedgehog pathway effectively inhibits the growth of hepatoma in mice: An in vivo study

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a worldwide malignancy, is prevalent in Asian countries. For individuals with unresectable HCC, the effect of chemotherapy or the present target therapy is limited. There is an urgent need to find innovative new therapies. It is believed that sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway activation may be essential for hepatocarcinogenesis. In the present study, we conducted an in vivo animal study using an Shh pathway inhibitor to elucidate the effect of treatment upon mice with HCC. Eighty C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 groups (groups A, B, C and D, with group A serving as a control; n=20 for each). We injected mouse hepatoma Mistheton Lectin-1 cells (5×10(6) cells/20 μl) into the left liver of each mouse in groups B, C and D. In the second week, we analyzed each mouse to assess the tumor growth status. Following the tumor injection, group B did not receive any additional intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection, group C received cyclopamine 10 mg/kg/day i.p. and group D received cyclopamine 30 mg/kg/day i.p. every day for 10 days. After an interval of 4 weeks, harvesting and analysis of the liver was performed for each mouse. Tumor size measurement and real-time PCR of Shh pathway factors (Shh, Ptch-1, Gli-1 and Smoh) for livers of group A and tumors of group B, C and D were undertaken. The decrease in the tumor size of group D was found to be statistically significant (P= 0.047) when compared with groups B or C. The decrease of Shh mRNA of both groups C and D had borderline significance when compared with group B. However, Gli-1 mRNA of group D has statistically significant difference (P=0.044) when compared with group A, B or C. Inhibition of the Shh pathway significantly decreases the size and Gli-1 mRNA expression of the tumor. The Shh pathway may be an effective treatment target for HCC in the future.

High expression of patched homolog-1 messenger RNA and glioma-associated oncogene-1 messenger RNA of sonic hedgehog signaling pathway indicates a risk of postresection recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high recurrence rate after resection. Abnormal activation of the sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway contributing to the carcinogenesis of some organs had been reported. We hypothesize that activation of SHH pathway contributes to the recurrence of HCC after surgical resection.

METHODS

In a prospective study, from January 2006 to June 2010, a total of 50 consecutive patients with HCC after curative resection were enrolled. The ratio of the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) of SHH, patched homolog-1 (PTCH-1) and glioma-associated oncogene-1 (GLI-1) between HCC tissues and the paired noncancerous liver tissues were measured. Both the clinicopathologic characteristics and these ratios were compared between those with recurrence and those without recurrence. They were also compared between those with and without survival.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant correlation among the ratios of PTCH-1 mRNA and serum AFP level (p = 0.045), tumor size (p = 0.001), vascular permeation (p = 0.043) and tumor, node, metastasis staging system (TNM) stage (p = 0.003). A borderline significant correlation was found among ratios of GLI-1 mRNA and tumor size (p = 0.062) and TNM stage (p = 0.051). There was no such significant correlation between SHH mRNA and any parameter. Both the ratios of PTCH-1 mRNA and GLI-1 mRNA significantly adversely affected recurrence (p = 0.003 and 0.005, respectively) and survival (p < 0.001 and <0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Expression of PTCH-1 mRNA and GLI-1 mRNA in HCC tissues is a potential biomarker to predict postresection disease recurrence.

PEDF effectively decreases VEGF to PEDF messenger RNA ratio of the inner edge of rat hepatocellular carcinoma induced by diethyl nitrosamine - an "in vivo" study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is hypervascular. Pigment epithelial derived factor (PEDF), a potent angiogenic inhibitor, usually coexists with the stimulator, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). To assess the treatment effect of PEDF on growing HCCs we conducted this study.

METHODOLOGY

Pathogen-free male LEW/SsN rats (n=150 in 5 groups), group A as control, groups B, C, D and E were given diethyl nitrosamine (DEN) to induce HCC. Group C received intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of PEDF (0.3mg/kg/day) since induction. Group D received i.p. of PEDF (0.3mg/kg/day) since 18th week (wk). Group E received i.p. of normal saline. We examined VEGF mRNA and PEDF mRNA of livers of group A and 3 different areas (advancing edge, inner edge and central area) of HCC of other 4 groups at 24th wk.

RESULTS

Tumor weight and metastasis score of group C were significantly lower (p=0.026). Comparing among 5 groups, the ratio of VEGF/PEDF mRNA of inner edge of HCC of group C and D were significantly lower (p=0.002 and p=0.011). By multivariate analysis, the difference of group C remains significant (p=0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

PEDF significantly suppresses rat hepatocarcinogenesis if given simultaneously since cancer induction. The significant decrease of VEGF/PEDF mRNA is at the inner edge of HCC.

The clinical relevance of the expression of the ratio of laminin-5 subchains messenger RNA of hepatocellular carcinoma to non-cancerous liver remnant: a prospective study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Laminin-5 has been reported as a prognostic indicator of some malignancies. This prospective study aimed to elucidate the correlation between the ratio of the expression of different laminin-5 subchain mRNAs in HCC tissue and the clinical relevance or prognosis of patients.

METHODOLOGY

Using RT-PCR, a3, ß3 and ?2 mRNA levels were determined prospectively from 29 patients with HCC undergoing curative resection. The ratio of the value of each subchain mRNA in HCC tissue to non-cancerous liver tissue was measured.

RESULTS

The mRNA of a3, ß3 and ß2 was detected in both HCC tissue and the liver remnants in 29 (100%), 29 (100%) and 28 (96.5%) patients, respectively. The ratio of ?2 mRNA correlated with the absence of complete encapsulation (p=0.033) and with the presence of hepatitis, with borderline significance (p=0.081). The ratio of a3 mRNA correlated with tumor hemorrhage and tumor necrosis with borderline significance (p=0.082 and p=0.082, respectively). The ratios of a3, ß3 and ?2 mRNA did not correlate significantly with postresection recurrence, recurrence and patient survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Expression of a3, ß3 and ?2 cannot predict the prognosis. However, high expression of ?2 mRNA in HCC/non-cancerous liver correlated significantly with the absence of complete encapsulation, which is an important tumor invasiveness factor.

Isolated resection of the caudate lobe harboring hepatocellular carcinoma in the paracaval portion of the cirrhotic liver without complete interruption of hepatic outflow--an alternative surgical approach

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Isolated resection of the caudate lobe harboring hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the paracaval portion is a challenge. To obtain a bloodless surgical field and to minimize the intraoperative blood loss, various vascular procedures of the outflow occlusion have been introduced. However, in those with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension total outflow occlusion, may increase the hemodynamic instability and postoperative morbidity.

METHODOLOGY

Of 21 patients receiving curative resection of HCC in caudate lobe, 3 had tumors in the paracaval portion (a largest diameter of 2.5cm, 9.5cm and 7.3cm, respectively). A Satinsky vascular clamp was applied obliquely on one side of inferior vena cava (IVC) to preserve the hepatic outflow. Pringle's maneuver was used for inflow control.

RESULTS

Using such measures, curative resection was performed smoothly in these 3 patients. Repair of an IVC defect by simple continuous suture with prolene 4-0 was undertaken in the second one. All patients had an uneventful postoperative course.

CONCLUSION

During resection of HCC in the paracaval portion of caudate lobe, using side clamp ing of IVC without complete interruption of hepatic outflow is safe and feasible. We suggest it as an alternative approach. It would reduce the hemodynamic instability and perioperative morbidity in a cirrhotic liver.

Combination of sorafenib and intensity modulated radiotherapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

Unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a poor therapeutic outcome. We report here on a 40-year-old male HCC patient who had undergone partial hepatectomy and was refractory to therapeutic embolization. In addition, the tumour expressed phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase and CD34. Sorafenib was administered as salvage treatment and resulted in a rapid decline in alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. However, this was accompanied by a grade 3 skin reaction, which improved as sorafenib dosage was gradually reduced. Unfortunately, reducing the dose of sorafenib also resulted in a rebound in AFP levels and portal vein thrombosis was noted thereafter. Sorafenib 800 mg/day was resumed, but the tumour failed to respond. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) combined with sorafenib was administered, resulting in marked tumour shrinkage and causing recurrence of the systemic skin reaction and development of photosensitivity. The patient survived for 20 months after the start of sorafenib treatment. This case suggests that the combination of sorafenib and IMRT might provide clinical benefits in patients with HCC who express potential targets but fail to respond to sorafenib; however, skin reactions should be monitored.

Internal supravesical hernia

Internal supravesical hernia is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction and a clinical diagnostic problem. We demonstrate its computed tomography (CT) appearance and believe familiarity with the anatomy of the supravesical fossa may allow the preoperative diagnosis.

Validation and comparison of alcohol-screening instruments for identifying hazardous drinking in hospitalized patients in Taiwan

AIM

The aim of this study was to validate the Mandarin Chinese version of different screening instruments and compare their performances for identifying hazardous drinkers in Taiwan.

METHODS

We compared the performance of the Mandarin Chinese versions of AUDIT, AUDIT-C (AUDIT items 1, 2 and 3), AUDIT-4 (AUDIT items 1, 2, 3 and 10), AUDIT-3 (AUDIT item 3), TWEAK, SMAST and CAGE to detect hazardous drinking in hospitalized patients in Taiwan. The results of the test instruments were blindly compared with the reference standard Schedule for Clinical Assessments in Neuropsychiatry (SCAN).

RESULTS

Of 404 patients evaluated, 100 were identified as having a hazardous drinking pattern. All screening instruments showed acceptable sensitivities (ranging from 85 to 93%) and specificities (ranging from 72 to 92%), but AUDIT and its short forms performed consistently better than the other instruments.

CONCLUSIONS

The Mandarin Chinese versions of AUDIT and its derivatives perform well in screening hospitalized Taiwanese patients for hazardous drinking.

Comparison of resected and non-resected intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas

By comparing the clinicopathological features and survivals between the resected and non-resected intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas, this study tried to clarify the natural history of IPMNs, to provide a strategy for treatment, and to determine the justification of not performing resection for some patients. A total of 57 patients with IPMN, including 39 resected and 18 non-resected IPMNs, were recruited for study. Data on demographics, clinical presentations, diagnostic work-up, treatment modality, clinical course, and outcomes were evaluated and compared between the resected and non-resected IPMNs. The most common clinical presentation was abdominal pain (57% in total IPMNs, 67% in resected, 33% in non-resected), followed by body weight loss (32% in total IPMNs, 33% in resected, 28% in non-resected). The sensitivity in the diagnosis of IPMN was highest by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) (88%), followed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (68%), and computed tomography scan (CT scan) (42%) and sonography (10%). The median survival was 21.5 months for patients with resected IPMNs, ranging from 2 to 124 months, and 14 months in non-resected IPMN patients, ranging from 5.5 to 70 months. There is no significant survival difference between the resected and non-resected groups, with a 5-year survival of 69.8% in resected IPMNs and 59.8% in non-resected IPMNs, P = 0.347. The survival outcome of the unresectable non-resected IPMNs was much inferior to the resected IPMNs, P = 0.002 and resectable non-resected IPMNs, P = 0.001. Thus, the prime prognostic factor in predicting the survival outcome of IPMNs is resectability, instead of resection itself. Long-term survival could also be expected in resectable IPMNs without resection. No resection for the IPMN may be justified for patients with high surgical risks, especially for those who are asymptomatic and very aged.

Subcutaneous Rosai-Dorfman disease: is surgical excision justified?

Rosai-Dorfman disease in soft tissue without nodal disease has been recognized as a distinct clinicopathologic entity. It may represent a diagnostic challenge and the natural history and optimal treatment has not been well clarified. We investigated a patient in whom Rosai-Dorfman disease was confined to the subcutis of the abdominal wall and recurred after incomplete excision. Complete resolution was achieved by wide surgical excision with negative margins. Pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of extranodal Rosai-Dorfman disease. The patient is disease-free after 1 year of follow-up. Despite the possibility that spontaneous remission may occur, our results suggest that when anatomically feasible, complete excision can be a treatment option for persistence or recurrence of exclusively extranodal disease. Larger case series and longer follow-up are needed to assess the long-term efficacy in these patients.

Surgical treatment of phyllodes tumors of the breast: retrospective review of 172 cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are uncommon biphasic breast tumors that usually occur in adult females. They are composed of a benign epithelial component and a cellular, spindle cell stroma forming a leaf-like structure. No one morphologic finding is reliable in predicting the clinical behavior of the tumor. The purpose of this study was to explore the clinicopathologic factors associated with outcome and metastasis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 172 patients seen at Mackay Memorial Hospital from January 1985 to December 2003. Clinical data analyzed included age, presenting symptoms and signs, tumor size, location, type of surgery, time to recurrence, and metastasis. The clinicopathologic factors associated with outcome and metastasis were analyzed statistically using the chi-square test with Yate correction.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 71 months (range 7-237). The mean age was 37 years (range 11-73). The majority of tumors were found in the upper outer quadrant (46.0%), with an equal propensity to occur in either breast (48.8% vs. 50.0%). The pathologic diagnoses included 131 benign, 12 borderline, and 29 malignant lesions. Nineteen patients (11%) had a recurrence and three (1.7%) had metastases. The initial diagnosis of all 19 recurrent tumors were benign. Age, surgical approach, mitotic activity, and surgical margin were significantly correlated with recurrence (P = 0.029, 0.020, 0.048, and 0.00018, respectively). Stromal cellularity, stromal overgrowth, stromal atypia, mitotic activity, tumor margin, and heterologous stromal elements were significantly correlated with metastases (P = 0.032, 0.00008, 0.000002, 0.004, 0.005, and 0.046, respectively). Mammography and breast echo were not reliable for differentiating PTs from fibroadenomas (6.9% vs. 37.9% and 3.3% vs. 45%, respectively). Frozen section was of limited value (41.6%). The role of adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy remains to be defined. Local excision, wide excision, or mastectomy with negative surgical margins yielded high local control rates (88.7%, 88.2%, and 100%, respectively), but local excision was associated with a relatively high percentage of positive surgical margins (18.3%). A total of 42 modified radical mastectomies were performed. The reasons for these procedures included a diagnosis of malignancy on frozen section or because the tumors were so large, they were assumed to be carcinomas. No axillary lymph node metastases were found. Fifteen patients in our series had tumors with infiltrating tumor margin, severe stromal overgrowth, atypia, and cellularity. All three patients with metastases (3/15) were in this group. Presence of metastases was significantly correlated with this group (P = 0.0000038).

CONCLUSIONS

Wide excision with a clear margin may be the preferable initial therapy, even for malignant PTs. Routine axillary lymph node dissection is not recommended. Patients have tumors with infiltrating tumor margin, severe stromal overgrowth, atypia, and cellularity are at high risk for metastases.

Choledochal cyst in adults: aetiological considerations to intrahepatic involvement

BACKGROUND

Choledochal cysts are rare anomalies of the biliary tree and their presentation in adults is infrequent. The high incidence of associated anomalous pancreaticobiliary duct junction (APBDJ) has been well documented. However, the prevalence of APBDJ in different anatomic distribution of cysts has yet to be clarified.

METHODS

A total 39 adult patients with choledochal cysts were consecutively enrolled: 22 patients had Todani type I cysts, 16 patients had type IVa cysts, and one patient had a type IVb cyst.

RESULTS

No statistical differences were found in age, sex or manifestations. A higher frequency of associated APBDJ was identified in patients with type IVa cyst (100%) than those with type I cyst (P < 0.05). With a mean follow-up of 7.2 years after cyst excision, three patients with type I choledochal cyst and four with type IVa cyst have had episodes of recurrent cholangitis, all accompanied with preoperatively diagnosed APBDJ.

CONCLUSION

Anomalous pancreaticobiliary duct junction has a close relationship with adult choledochal cysts, particularly type IVa. We propose the hypothesis that intrahepatic involvement results from progressive enzymatic destruction. Adult choledochal cysts in association with APBDJ, with or without intrahepatic component, should be carefully monitored.

Fumagillin treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in rats: An in vivo study of antiangiogenesis

AIM: To investigate the effect and possible mechanisms of antiangiogenesis therapy for HCC in rats.

METHODS: Adult male LEW/SsN rats were divided into 3 groups, 25 animals each. Group A was the control group. Groups B and C were given diethylnitrosamine, 5 mg/kg/d. In addition, group C rats received an intraperitoneal injection of fumagillin, 30 mg/(kg·d). Five animals in each group were killed at 6^th, 12^th, 18^th, 20^th and 24^th wk to evaluate the development of HCC and metastasis. Weight of the rats, liver tumors, and number of organs involved by HCC were measured at each stage. We compared methionine aminopeptidase-2 (MetAP-2) mRNA, Bcl-2 mRNA, telomerase mRNA, and telomerase activity at 24^th wk in the liver tissue of group A rats and tumor tissue of HCC from group B and C rats.

RESULTS: No HCC developed in group A, but tumors were present in group B and C rats by the 18^th wk. At wk 20 and 24, the median liver weight in group B was 0.64 g (range: 0.58-0.70 g) and 0.79 g (range: 0.70-0.90 g) (P = 0.04), and that in group C was 0.37 g (range: 0.35-0.42 g) and 0.39 g (range: 0.35-0.47 g) (P = 0.67). The liver weight in group C rats was significantly lower than that in group B rats (P = 0.009). At the same time, the median metastasis score (number of organ systems involved) was 3 (range 2-3) in group B, and 1 (range 1-2) in group C, a significant difference between the groups (P = 0.007, 0.004). The levels of MetAP-2 mRNA were significantly higher in groups B and C than in group A (P = 0.025), and significantly higher in group C than in group B (P = 0.047). The level of Bcl-2 mRNA was significantly higher in group B than in group A (P = 0.024), but lower in group C than in group B, although not significantly (P = 0.072). Telomerase mRNA was significantly higher in group B than in group A (P = 0.025), but significantly lower in group C than in group B (P = 0.016). The same inter-group relationship was also true for telomerase activity (P = 0.025 and 0.046).

CONCLUSION: Fumagillin effectively inhibits both liver tumor growth and metastasis in rats in vivo. A possible mechanism is fumagillin-induced inhibition of MetAP-2, which plays an essential role in endothelial cell proliferation. Inhibition of MetAP-2 also results in inhibition of Bcl-2 and telomerase activity.

Clinical significance of the expression of isoform 165 vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA in noncancerous liver remnants of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM: To investigate the prognostic role of isoform 165 vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA (VEGF₁₆₅ mRNA) in noncancerous liver tissues from patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS: Using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay, VEGF mRNA was determined prospectively in noncancerous liver tissues from 60 consecutive patients with HCC undergoing curative resection. We categorized the patients with VEGF₁₆₅ mRNA over 0.500 in noncancerous liver tissues as group A, and those below 0.500 as group B.

RESULTS: Among the isoforms of VEGF mRNA by multivariate analysis, a higher level of VEGF₁₆₅ mRNA in noncancerous liver tissue correlated significantly with a higher risk of HCC recurrence (P = 0.039) and recurrence-related mortality (P = 0.048), but VEGF₁₂₁ did not. The other significant predictors of recurrence consisted of vascular permeation (P = 0.022), daughter nodules (P = 0.033), cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.033), an absent or incomplete capsule (P = 0.037). A significant variable of recurrence-related mortality was vascular permeation (P = 0.012). As to the clinical manifestations of 16 patients who developed recurrence, the recurrent tumor number over 2, recurrent extent over two-liver segments, and the median survival after recurrence, all significantly correlated with group A patients (P = 0.043, 0.043, and 0.048, respectively). However, the presence of extrahepatic metastasis was not (P>0.05). The difference in recurrence after treatment between the two groups had no statistical significance (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION: The higher expression of isoform VEGF₁₆₅ mRNA in noncancerous liver remnant of patients with HCC may be a significant biological indicator of the invasiveness of postoperative recurrence.

Do the expressions of gap junction gene connexin messenger RNA in noncancerous liver remnants of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma correlate with postoperative recurrences?

AIM: To investigate whether the changes of gap junction gene connexin messenger RNA in the noncancerous liver tissue of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) could play a significant role in its postresection recurrence.

METHODS: Seventy-nine consecutive patients having undergone curative resection for HCC entered this study. Using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay, connexin (Cx) 26, connexin (Cx) 32 and connexin (Cx) 43 mRNAs were determined prospectively in noncancerous liver tissues from these 79 patients and in the liver tissues from 15 controls. The correlations between connexin mRNA expression and the clinicopathological variables and outcomes (tumor recurrence and recurrence related mortality) were studied.

RESULTS: Compared with liver tissues of control patients, the expression of Cx 32 mRNA in noncancerous liver tissues was significantly lower (mean: 0.715 vs control 1.225, P<0.01), whereas the decreased Cx 26 mRNA (mean: 0.700 vs of control 1.205, P>0.05) and increased Cx 43 mRNA (mean: 0.241 vs control 0.100, P>0.05) had no statistical significance. We defined the value of Cx 32 mRNA or Cx 26 mRNA below 0.800 as a lower value. By multivariate analysis for noncancerous livers, a lower value of Cx 32 mRNA correlated significantly with a risk of HCC recurrence and recurrence-related mortality. The lower value of Cx 26 mRNA did not correlate with recurrence and mortality. The increased value of Cx43 mRNA also did not correlate with postoperative recurrence and recurrence-related mortality. By multivariate analysis, other significant predictors of HCC recurrence included vascular permeation, cellular dedifferentiation, and less encaps-ulation. The other significant parameter of recurrence related mortality was vascular permeation.

CONCLUSION: The decreased expression of Cx 32 mRNA in noncancerous liver tissues plays a significant role in the prediction of postoperative recurrence of HCC.

Circulating messenger RNA of alpha-fetoprotein: a possible risk factor of recurrence after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma

HYPOTHESIS

Isolated tumor cells may be associated with micrometastasis. Circulating alpha-fetoprotein messenger RNA (AFP mRNA) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been considered to represent isolated tumor cells. We propose that circulating AFP mRNA may have prognostic value after curative resection of HCC.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Referral center.

PATIENTS

Eighty-one consecutive patients who underwent curative resection of HCC.

MEASUREMENTS

A nested reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay for circulating AFP mRNA before and again 12 weeks after surgery in 81 patients and in a control group. Clinicopathological variables and postoperative course (recurrence and recurrence-free survival) were examined for correlation with the levels of circulating AFP mRNA.

RESULTS

Of the 81 patients, 22 (27.2%) and 19 (23.4%) had AFP mRNA detected preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively. The recurrence-free survival at 1, 2, and 3 years after resection was significantly shorter in the latter patients (52.6%, 15.6%, and 0%, respectively; P<.001) but not in the former (81.8%, 54.5%, and 29.2%; P = .28). In univariate analysis, a significantly higher recurrence rate was found in patients with liver cirrhosis (P = .03), Edmondson-Steiner differentiation grade III or IV (P<.001), incomplete or absent capsule (P = .001), vascular invasion (P<.001), daughter nodules (P = .003), or a positivity for postoperative circulating AFP mRNA (P<.001). Postoperative positivity for circulating AFP mRNA remained a significant risk factor (P = .002; hazard ratio 3.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.52-6.47) in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

The detection of circulating AFP mRNA 12 weeks postoperatively is associated with an increased and earlier risk of HCC recurrence.

Are gap junction gene connexins 26, 32 and 43 of prognostic values in hepatocellular carcinoma? A prospective study

AIM

To investigate the prognostic value of the expression of connexin (Cx) 26, 32 and 43 messenger RNA (mRNA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues.

METHODS

Using a reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Cx 26, Cx 32 and Cx 43 mRNAs were determined in the liver tissues of 15 controls and in HCC tissues of 25 patients undergoing curative hepatic resection. The patients were followed up clinically.

RESULTS

Cx 26 and Cx 32 mRNAs were significantly lower in HCC tissues compared with controls (both P<0.01). By multivariate analysis, a lower level of Cx 26 and Cx 32 mRNA correlated significantly with a risk of HCC recurrence (P = 0.033) and recurrence-related mortality (P = 0.031, P = 0.031). Cx 43 mRNA was higher in HCC tissues compared with controls but did not correlate with postoperative recurrence or recurrence-related mortality. Other significant predictors of HCC recurrence included cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.033), less encapsulation (P = 0.050), vascular permeation (P = 0.046), and daughter nodules (P = 0.046). Significant variables related to recurrence-related mortality consisted of cell dedifferentiation (P = 0.031), vascular permeation (P = 0.048), and daughter nodules (P = 0.048). The levels of Cx 26 and Cx 32 mRNAs correlated significantly with cell differentiation (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

A low expression of Cx 26 and Cx 32 mRNAs in HCC tissues is predictive of postoperative recurrence of HCCs.

Does the presence of circulating hepatocellular carcinoma cells indicate a risk of recurrence after resection?

OBJECTIVES

Alpha-fetoprotein messenger RNA (AFP mRNA) in the peripheral blood (PB) of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been considered to represent isolated tumor cells. We investigated its association with the prognosis after curative resection.

METHODS

Using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay, AFP mRNA in the PB was determined prospectively in control and in 81 patients with curative resection for HCC.

RESULTS

Twenty-two (27.2%) and 19 (23.4%) of 81 HCC patients had AFP mRNA in their pre- and postoperative PB. Its presence preoperatively was not associated with an increased risk of HCC recurrence (54.5% vs 40.7%, p= 0.264). In contrast, the postoperative presence associated significantly with a higher incidence of recurrence (89.5% vs 30.6%, p < 0.001), irrespective of preoperative status. The odds ratio for HCC recurrence was 19.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.0- 91.7). The cmulative probability of recurrence-free survival was also much lower in patients with postoperatively positive AFP mRNA (p < 0.001). The Cox proportional hazards model also demonstrated a significant association with recurrence (p= 0.002). Preoperative serum AFP is also a significant factor and combination with postoperative AFP mRNA enhances the predictability, sensitivity (75.0%), specificity (93.3%), positive prediction (90.0%), and negative prediction (82.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

The postoperative detection of AFP mRNA in PB is associated with an increased risk of earlier HCC recurrence. Combination with preoperative serum AFP is useful in predictability.

Prognostic significance of preoperative circulating vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA expression in resectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A prospective study

AIM: To investigate the prognostic value of vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA (VEGF mRNA) in the peripheral blood (PB) of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing curative resection.

METHODS: Using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay, VEGF mRNA in the PB was determined prospectively in 50 controls and in 50 consecutive patients undergoing curative resection for HCC.

RESULTS: Among the isoforms of VEGF mRNA, VEGF₁₆₅ and VEGF₁₂₁ were expressed. By multivariate analysis, a higher level of VEGF₁₆₅ in preoperative PB correlated with a risk of HCC recurrence with borderline significance (P = 0.050) and significantly with recurrence-related mortality (P = 0.048); while VEGF₁₂₁ did not. Other significant predictors of HCC recurrence included cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.033), an absent or incomplete capsule (P = 0.020), vascular permeation (P = 0.018), and daughter nodules (P = 0.006). The other significant parameter of recurrence related mortality was cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.053). The level of circulating VEGF mRNA, however, did not significantly correlate with tumor size, cellular differentiation, capsule, daughter nodules, vascular permeation, necrosis and hemorrhage of tumors.

CONCLUSION: The preoperative level of circulating VEGF mRNA, especially isoform VEGF₁₆₅, plays a significant role in the prediction of postoperative recurrence of HCC.

Is the vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA expression in resectable hepatocellular carcinoma of prognostic value after resection ?

AIM: To study whether vascular endothelial growth factor messenger RNA (VEGF mRNA) in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues obtained after curative resection has a prognostic value.

METHODS: Using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay, VEGF mRNA was determined prospectively in liver tissues of 50 controls and in HCC tissues of 50 consecutive patients undergoing curative resection for HCC.

RESULTS: Among the isoforms of VEGF mRNA, VEGF₁₆₅ and VEGF₁₂₁ were expressed. By multivariate analysis, a higher level of VEGF₁₆₅ in HCC tissue correlated with a significant risk of HCC recurrence (P = 0.038) and significantly with recurrence-related mortality (P = 0.045); while VEGF₁₂₁ did not. Other significant predictors of HCC recurrence included cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.033), an absent or incomplete capsule (P = 0.020), vascular permeation (P = 0.018), and daughter nodules (P = 0.006). The other significant variables of recurrence related mortality consisted of vascular permeation (P = 0.045), and cellular dedifferentiation (P = 0.053). The level of VEGF mRNA in HCC tissues, however, did not significantly correlate with tumor size, cellular differentiation, capsule, daughter nodules, vascular permeation, necrosis and hemorrhage of tumors.

CONCLUSION: The expression of VEGF mRNA, especially isoform VEGF₁₆₅, in HCC tissues, may play a significant and independant role in the prediction of postoperative recurrence of HCC.