ATAD2 and hepatocellular carcinoma: The resultant combined 12 HCC EV-specific gene candidates are: ALB, APOH, ATAD2, FABP1, FGG, FGB, H2AX, PUF60, SORT1, TF, TUBG1, and UBL4A. This comprehensive data analysis pipeline ensures that the selected genes are specific to HCC EVs and can effectively differentiate themselves from those in the blood background.