To investigate the correlation between specific SNPs in the FOXP3 gene and hepatitis B-related HCC, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) Mass Spectrometry was used to screen for the presence of the FOXP3 gene polymorphisms in HCC donors, CHB donors and healthy donors. Here, FOXP3 is linked to hepatitis B virus infection.