Down-regulation of RUNX1, RUNX3 and CBFbeta in hepatocellular carcinomas in an early stage of hepatocarcinogenesis

Our previous studies suggested that deficient function of RUNX3 protein is causally related to development and progression of human gastric cancer. RUNX3 is mapped to 1p36, which is frequently deleted in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), therefore, these tumors were investigated for expression and copy number changes of RUNX3 and other Runt-related genes, RUNX1, RUNX2, and their co-factor CBFP. Similarly nearby uninvolved liver showing cirrhosis or normal histology was investigated in conjunction with various clinicopathological factors. Copy number change and expression change of RUNX family genes in 35 hepatocellular carcinoma specimens and adjoining liver with cirrhosis (LC) or normal histology were estimated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization.