Association between the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway and tumorigenesis, progression and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (Review)

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies with a rising incidence, and is characterized by rapid progression, frequent metastasis, late diagnosis, high postoperative recurrence and poor prognosis. Therefore, novel treatment strategies for HCC, particularly advanced HCC, are urgently required. The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition receptor (c-MET) axis is a key signaling pathway in HCC and is strongly associated with its highly malignant features. Available treat- ments based on HGF/c-MET inhibition may prolong the lifespan of patients with HCC; however, they do not achieve the desired therapeutic effects. The aim of the present article was to review the basic knowledge regarding the role of the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway in HCC, and examine the association between the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway and the tumorigenesis, progression and prognosis of HCC.