Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most commonly occurring cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths, and the incidence of this cancer is increasing. A substantial portion of HCCs are thought to arise from hepatic stem cells. In this Review, Lopa Mishra and colleagues describe TGF-β signalling in liver stem cell niches, and examine the roles of this cytokine including those in tumour progression and suppression. Important translational studies that are needed to develop novel therapies are discussed.
- Avijit Majumdar
- Steven A. Curley
- Lopa Mishra
