This result might implicate a context-dependent role of TGF-β in the plasticity and stemness of cancerous liver cells as compared with normal liver cells.76 It is also in keeping with the complex role of TGF-β as a tumour suppressor and a pro-metastatic factor, depending on the context and stages of HCC development.77,78 More, improved liver cancer models are needed to elucidate this further. The gene discussed is TGFB1; the disease is neoplasm.