In this study we showed that a) over-expression of miR-18b was associated with poor prognosis of HCC; b) miR-18b has the ability to control the expression of TNRC6B gene as a target; and c) over-expression of miR-18b and down-regulation of TNRC6B showed malignant potential for hepatocarcinogenesis. This evidence concerns the gene TNRC6B and hepatocellular carcinoma.