The Expression of PEDF and its Putative Receptors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Background Liver Tissue

Abstract

Background/aim: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the biggest medical issues. Pigment epithelial-derived factor (PEDF) is a glycoprotein that belongs to the superfamily of serine protease inhibitors. PEDF interacts with its two receptors, adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and laminin receptor (LR).

Materials and methods: We conducted immunohistochemical staining for PEDF, LR and ATGL in 151 resected HCCs and their background liver tissues.

Results: High expression of LR in HCC was associated with high histological grade and portal vein invasion, while high expression of PEDF in HCC was associated with absence of portal vein invasion. High LR expression in background liver was statistically associated with low serum albumin levels and was an independent prognostic factor of worse outcomes. No cases with more than 5% fatty degeneration in the background liver tissue showed high PEDF expression.

Conclusion: PEDF/LR/ATGL could be potential biomarkers in HCC and various chronic hepatic disorders.

Keywords: Pigment epithelial-derived factor; adipose triglyceride lipase; background liver condition; hepatocellular carcinoma; laminin receptor.