Biochemical Studies on Amphiregulin protein in Hepatitis C virus patients

Abstract

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver cancer and the sixth most common form of cancer worldwide. The number of its patients are growing all over the world as it affects half a million patients yearly. The main indication of HCC is the secretion of Alfa Feto Protein which may be normal in only 40 % of its patients. Amphiregulin protein has been identified as one of the 10-gene signatures in close association with the occurrence of liver metastasis in colorectal cancer patients. The expression of AREG in normal livers is undetectable; however, it is induced during acute and chronic liver injury AREG is an early response growth factor during liver regeneration. It also contributes to the transformed phenotype of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Objectives: The aim of the study is biochemical investigation of amphiregulin protein in Hepatitis C virus patients. Patients and Methods: This study involved 90 participants in 3 groups: Group (1): Control group composed of 30 healthy subjects. Group (2): Cirrhosis group which is composed of 30 patients with chronic liver disease (cirrhosis). Group (3): HCC group which is composed of 30 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma on top of HCV-related liver cirrhosis. All patients were subject to an assessment of AFP and AREG. Besides, HCC patients went clinically through a full estimation of liver biochemical profile, viral indications, and finally US and triphasic abdominal CT. Results: There is a statistically significantly higher age, Amphiregulin, AST, and INR in HCC > cirrhosis > control. AFP was statistically significantly higher in HCC and cirrhosis vs. control. Though, AFP was higher in HCC vs. control, and this difference was not statistically significant. There is a statistically significantly lower serum albumin in HCC > cirrhosis > control. WBCs and platelet counts were statistically significantly lower in HCC vs. cirrhosis. There is statistically significantly higher ALT and total bilirubin in HCC and cirrhosis vs. control, and a statistically significantly lower hemoglobin level in HCC and cirrhosis vs. control. Conclusion: The result exhibit There is the diagnostic performance is good for AREG and when use to gather with AFP is perfect.