As a predicted binding sequence existed in Sp1 mRNA, we wonder whether the suppressive effects of miR-612 on HCC CSCs were achieved by Sp1, a vital transcription factor functionally related to cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, drug resistance and metastasis.22, 23 Definitely, Sp1 was significantly suppressed in miR-612-o HCCLM3 compared with WT and NC cells (1.98±0.07 versus 1.00±0.06 and 1.00±0.06; P<0.01), whereas remarkably increased in miR-612-i HepG2 compared with WT and NC cells (0.55±0.02 versus 1.00±0.03 and 1.01±0.02; P<0.01). Here, SP1 is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.