Mutation of PRSS23 promotes HCC development via activation of AKT/PI3K/mTOR signaling

Human hepatocarcinogenesis represents a step-wise process, in which premalignant Dysplastic Nodules precede the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). During this process, hepatocellular tumors showing a nodule-in-nodule appearance may develop, suggesting the evolution of a faster growing neoplasm from its precursor lesion. In this study we aimed at the identification of clonally expanded driver mutations in a well-differentiated HCC evolving from a Dysplastic Nodule (DN).