Signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma

The paradigm of using targeted molecular therapies against known aberrant signaling pathways is revolutionizing modern treatment of many cancers. In hepatocellular carcinoma, the use of sorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor, has improved survival in advanced disease. However, many other promising drugs have failed to improve on its success. This chapter summarizes the key mechanisms of pathway deregulation identified in cancer, and describes those pathways implicated in HCC carcinogenesis and progression. Current and potential future therapeutics targeting these pathways are discussed.