EGF and hepatocellular carcinoma: The activation of growth factor modulating signaling pathways, The development of HCC is aided by various signaling pathways, including those that are involved in cell differentiation (Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) (43).