Expression of miRNA-122-5p as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Susceptibility in Hepatitis B-Infected Iraqi Patients

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related death. For this reason, researchers must have a solid grasp of molecular biology. Abnormal miRNA expression has been associated with metastasis, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis in several illnesses, including cancer. Research on miR-122 and other microRNAs has factualized on their potential roles in cancer. The leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide is the hepatitis B virus. Aim. This study aimed to evaluate expression of Circulating miR-122-5p in relation to the pathogenesis of HCC in hepatitis B Iraqi patients and as a promising diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers. Methods. A total of 120 samples were collected, 40 newly diagnosed patients with hepatocellular carcinoma representing group I, 40 patients chronic HBV representing group II who were admitted to hospital from the period among January 2023 to August 2023 and 40 apparently healthy individual’s volunteers representing group III. In order to measure the miR-122 method gene expression, 5 ml of blood were drawn from each subject using disposable syringes during venipuncture. By using RT-qPCR, the miRNA expression in eighty serum samples was examined. Results. Serum miR-122 levels were much higher in HCC and chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) patients compared to healthy controls (HCs). The mean ΔCt values were −8.27733 for the HCC group, −8.0715 for the CHB group, and −6.517 for the control group. Accordingly, the mean 2^-ΔCt values were 310.260 in HCC patients, 269.007 in CHB patients, and 91.582 in the control group. When the control group was used as a calibrator (fold change = 1.00), the relative fold expression of miR-122-5p increased to 3.4-fold in the HCC group and 2.9-fold in the CHB group. miR-122 expression was upregulated in individuals with HCC and when compared with healthy controls. Conclusions. The relative expression analysis revealed a increase in HCC patients and CHB patients, indicating a strong association between elevated miR-122 levels and HBV-related liver pathology.