HIF1A and hepatocellular carcinoma: Under the hypoxic condition, expression levels of HIF‐1α are elevated because of its decreased degradation by proteasome.8 In some previous studies, HIF‐1α induces epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma.9, 10 EMT plays essential roles in tumor invasion and metastasis.11, 12 EMT has been originally known as a phenotypic change during embryonic development, tissue remodeling, and wound healing.13 When EMT occurs, cells lose intercellular adhesion, alter morphology to spindle‐shaped appearances, and increase mobility.13