Expression of maspin in HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma

Background: Liver diseases such as HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still among the most important health problems in the worldwide. To make successful treatment, an accurate diagnosis is necessary. In the forthcoming study, the level of Maspin protein expression and its relationship with early diagnosis of HBV-related HCC were studied in the liver tissue of Iranian patients. Methods: The study consisted of 30 healthy individuals and 121 patients (HBV, HCC, HBV + HCC). The level of Maspin expression in the liver samples of all volunteers was evaluated by IHC and quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase. Results: Statistically, the level of Maspin expression was different between HBV-related HCC and HBV groups. There was a significant relationship between labeling index and immunohistochemical and molecular expressions of Maspin. The results showed the most appropriate sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of patients with HCC (81.0% and 98.9%, respectively). Conclusion: Results emphasized the significant relationship between Maspin expression and risk of HCC in patients with HBV. It was concluded that Maspin expressions could increase significantly in HBV-related HCC patients.