Aim
We assessed NKG2D receptor expression as a diagnostic biomarker for HCC detection and progression in Egyptian patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC.
Background
Natural Killer (NK) cells have crucial roles in immune responses against malignant transformation including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The NKG2D receptor has a critical role in the NK recognition of target cells.
Conclusion
The percentage of NK cells in peripheral blood and NKG2D receptor expression could function as potential biomarkers for HCC detection and progression.
Methods
We classified 81 patients into three groups: chronic hepatitis (21), cirrhotic (30) and HCC (30) patients, with 36 individuals enrolled to the control group. We analyzed NK levels in peripheral blood and NKG2D receptor expression in NK cells using flow cytometry.
Results
We observed a significant decrease in NKG2D (CD314) expression on circulating NK cells and frequency of NK cells expressing NKG2D (CD314) in HCC patients. Also, in patients, larger foci lesions significantly correlated with decreased NK cell numbers. Multiple foci numbers and patients with a Child score C significantly correlated with decreased circulating NK cells expressing NKG2D and decreased NKG2D expression.