Study to Evaluate Genetic and Clinical Risk Factors for Liver Cancer in Adults with Fatty Liver Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma HCC, a common and deadly liver cancer, especially related to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease NAFLD. NAFLD is caused mainly by insulin resistance from unhealthy lifestyles and is becoming a leading cause of HCC. This study aims to understand the genetic and acquired factors that contribute to NAFLD-related liver cancer, including how obesity, diabetes, and genetic mutations promote cancer development. The research involves evaluating genetic variants that increase the risk of NAFLD-HCC, including common mutations in genes like PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and MBOAT7, as well as rare mutations in genes related to telomere shortening and lipid metabolism such as TERT and APOB. The study is conducted in two phases first, assessing the impact of these genetic risk factors and their interactions on HCC risk and survival second, using advanced sequencing technologies to discover new genetic variants associated with HCC. Participants diagnosed with NAFLD or cryptogenic liver disease, aged 45 to 75 years, will be involved. They will undergo genetic testing and evaluations of liver health through biopsies or non-invasive measures like Fibroscan and blood tests. Researchers will monitor the influence of genetic and family history factors on liver cancer risk over up to 84 months. The study also excludes individuals with significant alcohol use, other liver diseases, or prior liver cancer diagnosis.

Evaluation of Risk of hEpatocellular Carcinoma