In mouse models with HCC that are infected with E. coli, the expression of STK4 in macrophages is reduced; however, IL‐6 and TNF alpha concentrations were inversely elevated.54 The higher expression of proinflammatory cytokines and the induction of hepatic fibrosis in the presence of LPS could be explained by the negative effect of E. coli on the lower expression of the STK4 tumor suppressor protein in patients with HBV. This evidence concerns the gene STK4 and hepatocellular carcinoma.