Based on previous reports, we found that HAMP modulates cell proliferation through interaction with its receptor SLC40A1. Comprehensive analysis of cells in HCC and para-carcinoma tissues revealed that: (1) HAMP is specifically expressed in hepatocytes and significantly downregulated in malignant hepatocytes; (2) a subset of macrophages expressing SLC40A1 and genes reacting to various infections is present in para-carcinoma but not in HCC tissue. This evidence concerns the gene SLC40A1 and infection.