Role of Micro RNA-148a (miR-148a) As an Early Diagnostic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Egyptian Patients

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is currently the fifth most common solid tumor worldwide; its burden has been increasing in Egypt. miRNA-148a, is a hepato- specific miRNA, was found down-regulated in the majority of HCC patients. This study aimed to evaluate the role of miRNA-148a as a dependable, non-invasive biochemical marker for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. This case-control study included 64 subjects at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI): 34 HCC patients, 20 chronic HCV patients, and 10 apparently healthy volunteers. All included subjects were subjected to - Full history and clinical examination. Radiological investigations: a) Abdominal ultrasonography U/S to assess hepatic focal lesions, liver cirrhosis, hepatosplenomegaly and presence of ascites. b) Computed tomography (CT) scan abdomen for HCC patients