IdentiWcation of HTA as a novel-speciWc marker for human hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignancy in the world, especially in China. Early diagnosis of new and recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma, followed by timely treatment, will help decrease mortality. Currently biomarkers are not satisfactory. Better diagnostic methods are highly demanded. Methods In this study, we have used in silico identiWcation and RT-PCR test and discovered a hepatoma associatedgene (HTA). Knockdown of endogenous HTAexpression was performed by small interfering RNA in malignant hepatocyte HepG2. Then we tested the cell proliferative ability of these cells in vitro and in vivo. Results HTA was expressed speciWcally in some kinds of tumors, but not detected in any normal tissues. It was expressed especially high in hepatocellular carcinoma. Knockdown of endogenous HTA expression in HepG2 bysmall interfering RNA attenuated HCC cell growth. Conclusions HCA is a very good marker for tumors, especially for HCC. It could play important roles in HCC development and progression and can be a promising molecular target for the development of new diagnostic andtherapeutic strategies for HCC. © Springer-Verlag 2010.