ANGPT1 and hepatocellular carcinoma: In addition, mean plasma Ang-2 levels were significantly more elevated in HCC patients with a higher Child-Pugh score, higher TNM-stage, HCV positivity, presence of vascular invasion and thrombosis, presence of metastasis, and higher AFP levels, whereas plasma Ang-1 was significantly lower in patients with a more advanced Child-Pugh score and TNM staging (Figure 2A–2H).