Once ZEB1 increases the expression of DDX56, it can exert its downstream actions by upregulating the expression of muscle, intestine and stomach expression 1 (MIST1), which in turn negatively regulates Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN) to activate AKT signaling, leading to HCC cell proliferation [115]. Here, ZEB1 is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.