WNK1 and hepatocellular carcinoma: Specifically, WNK1 activates downstream effectors oxidative stress-response kinase-1 (OSR1) to stimulate the migration of endothelial cells and HCC cells246 These findings highlight the complex molecular regulatory mechanisms through which HBx, including HMGB1, HIF-1α, WNK1, and their downstream effectors, plays a crucial role in promoting angiogenesis (Fig. 4d).