Novel biomarkers for monitoring and management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Due to current challenges in the early detection, less than 40% of individuals diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are viable candidates for surgical intervention. Therefore, validating and launching of a novel precise diagnostic approach is essential for early diagnosis. Based on developing evidence using circulating tumor cells and their derivatives, circulating miRNAs, and extracellular vesicles (EVs), liquid biopsy may offer a reliable platform for the HCC's early diagnosis. Each liquid biopsy analyte may provide significant areas for diagnosis, prognostic assessment, and treatment monitoring of HCC patients depending on its kind, sensitivity, and specificity. The current review addresses potential clinical applications, current research, and future developments for liquid biopsy in HCC management.

Keywords: Circulating tumor DNA; Circulating tumor cells; Extra-cellular vesicles; HCC biomarkers; Liquid biopsy.

Fig. 1

Circulating biomarkers and applications of liquid biopsy. A This section represents the conventional and potential circulating biomarkers identified in patients with HCC. B This section demonstrates the potential applications of liquid biopsy as a non-invasive strategy for managing HCC patients. Liquid biopsy offers a promising method for early diagnosis, prediction of therapy response, tumor monitoring, prognosis assessment and, molecular stratification

Fig. 2

Novel and emerging biomarkers: EVs, CTCs, miRNAs, and ctDNA/cfRNAs are the known liquid biomarkers. These biomarkers can be detected in circulation, making them useful for non-invasive diagnostic tests. They provide valuable information about the presence and progression of diseases, helping in early detection and personalized treatment strategies