Among viral proteins encoded by HBV genome, HBX is considered as a cancer cofactor and modulates tumorigenesis via the regulation of expression and activity of multiple host factors.1, 3, 4, 5, 6 Especially, current studies indicate that HBX is capable of regulating various cytokines, including IL‐6,7 IL‐128 and TGF‐β,9 to mediate the proliferation, apoptosis and migration of HBV‐related HCC. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.