To challenge our presumption a four-step model system was designed: (1) we examined the mRNA expression of decorin in HCC using in silico approaches; (2) FFPE TMA samples of HCC with or without cirrhosis were applied to measure decorin content at protein level; (3) cell culture experiments were to test whether tumor cells can inhibit decorin production of myofibroblasts; and (4) animal experiments were designed to clarify the potential of decorin to inhibit the development of HCC evoked by TA. The gene discussed is DCN; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.