From a molecular mechanism standpoint, SOX factors play their tumor-promoting or tumor suppressing role in HCC through modulating multiple key signaling pathways in a transcription-dependent or independent manner, including Wnt/β-catenin signaling, TGFβ signaling, Notch signaling, AMPK/mTOR signaling, and p53 signaling. This evidence concerns the gene TGFB1 and hepatocellular carcinoma.