Multiple Hepatocellular Carcinoma Biomarkers (Multiple HCC Biomarkers) (Multiple HCC Biomarkers)

Multiple Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Biomarkers refers to a heterogeneous group of biological molecules used for the detection, surveillance, and management of liver cancer (Tsuchiya et al., 2015). The most widely recognized biomarker is Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), though its clinical utility is often limited by low sensitivity in early-stage disease and potential elevation in non-malignant chronic liver conditions (Marrero et al., 2018). To improve diagnostic accuracy, AFP is frequently combined with other markers such as Des-gamma-carboxyprothrombin (DCP) and the Lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP (AFP-L3) in clinical panels like the GALAD score (Best et al., 2016). Emerging biomarkers include Glypican-3 (GPC3), Golgi protein 73 (GP73), and various circulating nucleic acids like microRNAs and cell-free DNA (Luo et al., 2018). While these biomarkers primarily serve diagnostic and prognostic roles, some, such as GPC3, are also being investigated as potential therapeutic targets for monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapies (Ho & Kim, 2011).

Other names

HCC biomarker panelLiver cancer biomarkersHepatocellular carcinoma markers

The biomarkers themselves are primarily used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Therapeutic agents targeting specific members of this group, such as Glypican-3, typically utilize mechanisms like antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) or T-cell redirection to eliminate malignant cells (Ho & Kim, 2011).