Further studies revealed that hsa_piR_016975, acting as an oncogene, could target inhibition of the expression of serpin family B member 5 (SERPINB5; also known as Maspin) while up-regulating GPX4 expression, thereby weakening ferroptosis and resulting in HCC progression and sorafenib resistance. The gene discussed is GPX4; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.