The random-effects model was used for the analysis because the I2 value was >50%, and the combined HR for the six studies was 1.38 (95% CI 1.04–1.82; Z = 2.27, P = 0.02), indicating that upregulated expression of SPARC was significantly associated with OS in patients with HCC (Fig 3). The gene discussed is SPARC; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.