The Role of p53 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications for Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection

Abstract

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major global health challenge, with chronic HBV infection accounting for a substantial proportion of cases, particularly in regions where HBV prevalence is high. Aim: This study aimed to assess the relationship between the levels of p53 and the risk of viral hepatitis B-related HCC. Methods: The study included 120 samples clustered into three groups. Patients with viral hepatitis B-derived liver cancer (40) and chronic viral hepatitis (40) and 40 healthy controls (HC). These samples were collected from the Medical City/Digestive System Hospital, and the time period was from January 2023 to June 2023. Serum samples were analyzed for ALT and AST levels, as well as p53 protein concentration using ELISA. Results: This shows Significant p53 expression levels higher in the HCC group (321.56 ± 76.71) compared to the HBV group (264.67 ± 60.21) and the control group (192.15 ± 77.64) with highly significantly of p. value (0.001), indicating the potential diagnostic relevance of p53 measurement in these patient groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the significant role of p53 in the progression of HCC linked to chronic hepatitis B virus infection. The elevated p53 levels in HCC patients suggest its potential role as a valuable biomarker for HCC diagnosis and prognosis.