In summary, using a multiplexed, molecularly driven approach, we have identified a panel comprising CXCL12, KRT7, CD44v6, TGFBR2 and HIF1A that can predict recurrence in the liver independent of conventional prognostic criteria and identify patients with lung cancer who will develop liver metastasis despite undergoing definitive surgery and/or treatment. Here, CXCL12 is linked to lung carcinoma.