Approved Research

Hereditary susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma

Lay summary

Genes involved in metabolism plays plausible roles in liver cancer development in persons with fatty liver disease. Inherited genetic predisposition to other genes has been associated with risk of multiple cancers, including pancreatic, ovarian, breast, and gastric cancer. The primary aim of this project is to investigate the association between inherited genetic variants in genes involved in metabolism and the risk of liver cancer development in persons with fatty liver disease. Our secondary aim is to investigate the association between previously established cancer susceptibility genes and the risk of liver cancer development. We expect findings from this research to improve approaches for risk prevention and early detection of liver cancer.

Scope extension:

Aim: To identify common and rare variants in the one-carbon metabolism pathway associated with hepatocellular carcinoma development in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Hypothesis: Genetic variants in the one-carbon metabolism pathway predispose patients to hepatocellular carcinoma.

Aim: To identify rare pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants associated with the development of hepatobiliary cancer. Hypothesis: Rare P/LP variants are associated with increased risk of hepatobiliary cancer.

New scope extension:

Aim: To evaluate whether genetic risk for hepatobiliary cancer is modified by adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Hypothesis: Association between genetic risk and hepatobiliary cancer is modified by a healthy lifestyle pattern.