The function of HBx in HBV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second cause cancer death in the world. HCC is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages with intrahepatic metstasis or vascular invasion and has a poor prognosis with a high mortality rate. In the world, hepatitis B virus (HBV) caused over 50% HCC, making it the most common carcinogen after tobacco. Notably, accumulating evidence suggests HBV X gene (HBx) play an important role in tumorigenesis of HBV-related HCC. In this review, we will summarize the functions of HBx proteins in tumorigenesis and discuss their potential implications in cancer therapy.