Research on Viral Tumorigenesis

Background

Liver cancer is the fifth most prevalent cancer and the third leading cause of all cancer-related deaths worldwide (Farazi PA and DePinho RA, 2006; Jemal A et al., 2008). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer in adults, representing over 90% of all cases. Although advances in HCC detection and treatment have increased the likelihood of cure at early stages of the disease, HCC remains largely incurable because of the late presentation and tumor recurrence. The current treatment protocols include conventional surgical resection and cytotoxic chemotherapy. But due to the highly resistant nature of the disease, the efficacy of the latter regimen is very limited. Therefore, it is urgent need for more effective treatment.

Objectives

• Identify the novel therapeutic molecular targets for HCC treatment
• Develop anti-cancer drug

Our Scope

miRNA regulate tumorigenesis in HCC

The aim of miRNA study is to find the novel molecular target for HCC therapy. In our study, some miRNA (such as miR-122a, miR-637, miR-218) were found to act as tumor suppressor in HCC. We will elucidate their molecular mechanism and potentially provide a promising therapeutic target for HCC patients.

Selected Publications

Coordinator

Professor HF Kung
Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases
The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care
Chinese University of Hong Kong
Prince of Wales Hospital
Shatin, Hong Kong

Tel:	(852) 3943 4373
Fax:	(852) 2994 4988
Email:	hkung@cuhk.edu.hk