In conclusion, we developed a clinically feasible ECLIA method for measuring IgM-free AIM in serum and demonstrated that IgM-free AIM is a more precise biomarker for HCC than the conventional biomarkers, AFP or DCP, for NASH-HCC, as well as for HBV- or HCV-related HCC, even in early cancer stages. The gene discussed is CD40LG; the disease is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.