PNPLA3 and hepatocellular carcinoma: We and others have previously shown that the I148M variant of the Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3) gene, the major common genetic determinant of hepatic fat content, influences the development of steatosis, and the progression towards advanced fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with CHC8–11.