Novel Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Scientists at the National Cancer Institute have discovered that Stearol-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1) is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Utilizing a microarray to analyze HCC patient samples, the investigators found SCD-1 is elevated in liver tumor tissues and it is a marker for a highly aggressive form of HCC, hepatic stem cell-like HCC subtype (HpSC HCC), which retains stem-cell features capable of cellular plasticity and cell motility. The investigators found SCD-1 is significantly elevated in HpSC tumors in comparison to less aggressive HCC tumors and it is associated with poor patient survival. In vitro studies demonstrate SCD-1 inhibition and/or addition of saturated palmitic acid reduces HpSC HCC characteristics. In addition to diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment applications, this technology may enable clinicians to effectively stratify patients for more aggressive cancer treatment and prioritize candidates for liver transplantation. CRADA Opportunity: The National Cancer Institute is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate or commercialize biomarkers for liver cancer. For collaboration opportunities, please contact John Hewes, Ph.D. at hewesj@mail.nih.gov. Click here to view the NCI collaborative opportunity announcement.

Source: http://www.ott.nih.gov/Technologies/abstractDetails.aspx?RefNo=2394

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