Interestingly, CXCL12 enhances the expression of VE-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and laminin5γ2 via CXCR4 in tumor cells (rather than endothelial cells), forming vascular-like channels that promote vascular mimicry (VM) formation and provide blood perfusion for HCC tissues (Yang et al., 2016). Here, CXCR4 is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.