Liver carcinogenesis

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma occurs most commonly in the setting of cirrhosis, where the annual rate of cancer development approximates 3-7%. Most cases arise in the setting of impaired liver regeneration combined with chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Liver progenitor cells play an important role in cell renewal processes in the liver in the setting of chronic injury and have recently emerged as potential candidates in the carcinogenic pathway. There are two main hypotheses which have been proposed to explain hepatocellular carcinogenesis, namely the de-differentiation and the maturation arrest hypotheses. Understanding the carcinogenic pathways and the role of liver progenitor cells will provide greater understanding and novel approaches to preventative strategies.