Transforming growth factor-β1 gene expression in hepatocellular carcinoma: a preliminary report.

Background And Study Aims: The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signalling pathway plays a dual role in hepatocarcinogenesis. It has been recognised for its role as a tumour suppressor as well as a tumour promoter depending on the cellular context. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of serum TGF-β1 level and TGF-β1 messenger RNA (mRNA) in the peripheral blood of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients as noninvasive biomarkers in diagnosing HCC.

The first Egyptian experience using new self-expandable metal stents in acute esophageal variceal bleeding: pilot study.

Unlabelled: BACKGROUND / AIM: Balloon tamponade has been widely available in emergency situations of acute variceal bleeding. To lessen the complications of Balloon tamponade, a new special type of stent for exclusive use in acute variceal bleeding has been developed. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and safety of the new self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in the initial control of acute variceal bleeding.