The results of these assays showed that HMGB1 was co-upregulated with RICTOR, KIAA2018, AFF4, BCL11B, and TEAD1 in HBV+ early-stage HCC (BCLC stages 0 + A HCC) (Fig. 1b, top). This evidence concerns the gene HMGB1 and hepatocellular carcinoma.