Collaborative project between KAUST and KFSHRC Jeddah

Lead PI (KAUST): Prof. Valerio Orlando

Lead PI (KFSHRC, Jeddah): Prof. Edward James Cupler

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a primary malignant tumor occurring in the hepatocytic cells account for 85-90% of all primary liver cancer. The main risk factors for HCC include viral hepatitis, aflatoxin exposure, alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In KSA, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are leading causes of advanced liver disease and liver-disease related morbidity and mortality. The chronic inflammation of the liver in NAFLD patients increase the risk of developing liver fibrosis which is a primary risk factor for the progression of cirrhotic liver and subsequently HCC.

Taking advantage of NASH, NAFLD and HCC patients derived Blood and Liver biopsies we will investigate changes both RNAs (short and long RNA sequencing) and proteins/peptides ( Mass Spectrometry) expression to find circulating markers able to predict the progression from NASH to HCC and stratify patients for preventive therapies.

Collaborative project between KAUST and KFSHRC Jeddah

Contact Us

Quick links