by Cheung Yuk Yin. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2002. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves xx-xxviii). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / Acknowledgements --- p.i / Abstract --- p.ii / 摘要 --- p.iii / Table of Content --- p.iv / Abbreviations / for Amino Acids --- p.viii / for Standard Genetic Code --- p.ix / for Units --- p.x / for Prefixes --- p.xi / for Terms commonly used in the report --- p.xii / List of Figures --- p.xiii / List of Tables --- p.xiv / Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction / Chapter 1.1 --- Epidemiology of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) --- p.1 / Chapter 1.2 --- Relationship between Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma --- p.2 / Chapter 1.3 --- Brief Description of HBV Genome --- p.2 / Chapter 1.4 --- Possible Roles of HBx in Hepatocellular Carcinoma --- p.4 / Chapter 1.5 --- Novel Interacting Partner of HBx - HBx-lnteracting Protein (XIP) --- p.6 / Chapter 1.6 --- Objective --- p.6 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Methodology / Chapter 2.1 --- Information of the HBx and XIP Clones --- p.7 / Chapter 2.2 --- "Information of the Expression Vectors (pRSETA, 6xHis-pRSETA and pET8C)" --- p.7 / Chapter 2.3 --- Sub-Cloning of HBx and XIP into Different Vectors --- p.9 / Chapter 2.3.1 --- Design of Primers for Cloning of HBx and XIP into Different Vectors --- p.9 / Chapter 2.3.2 --- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Protocol --- p.12 / Chapter 2.3.3 --- Enzyme Digestion Reaction Protocol --- p.14 / Chapter 2.3.4 --- Ligation Protocol --- p.16 / Chapter 2.3.5 --- Preparation of Competent Cells --- p.17 / Chapter 2.3.6 --- Transformation --- p.18 / Chapter 2.3.7 --- Gel Extraction Protocol --- p.19 / Chapter 2.3.7.1 --- Life Technologies CONCERT´ёØ Rapid Gel Extraction System --- p.19 / Chapter 2.3.7.2 --- QIAGEN Gel Extraction Kit --- p.20 / Chapter 2.3.8 --- Plasmid Preparation Protocol --- p.22 / Chapter 2.3.8.1 --- Life Technologies CONCERT´ёØ Rapid Plasmid Minipreps --- p.22 / Chapter 2.3.8.2 --- QIAGEN Plasmid Maxi Kit --- p.23 / Chapter 2.4 --- Expression of HBx and XIP in E. coli Strain C41 (DE3) --- p.25 / Chapter 2.4.1 --- Transformation --- p.25 / Chapter 2.4.2 --- Expression of HBx and 6xHis-HBx in E. coli Strain C41 (DE3) --- p.26 / Chapter 2.4.3 --- Expression of XIP in E. coli Strain C41 (DE3) --- p.27 / Chapter 2.5 --- Preparation of Buffers for Chromatography and Circular Dichroism Spectrum Measurement --- p.28 / Chapter 2.6 --- Purification and Refolding of HBx and His-Tagged HBx --- p.28 / Chapter 2.6.1 --- Washing of HBx and His-Tagged HBx Inclusion Bodies --- p.28 / Chapter 2.6.2 --- His-Tagged HBx Purification by Affinity Chromatography --- p.29 / Chapter 2.6.3 --- HBx Purification by Size Exclusion Chromatography --- p.30 / Chapter 2.6.4 --- Refolding of HBx and His-Tagged HBx by Oxidative Dialysis --- p.30 / Chapter 2.7 --- Purification of XIP --- p.33 / Chapter 2.7.1 --- Screening of Chromatographic Conditions for the Purification of XIP --- p.33 / Chapter 2.7.2 --- XIP 1st Step of Purification by Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography --- p.34 / Chapter 2.7.3 --- XIP 2nd step of Purification by Size Exclusion Chromatography --- p.34 / Chapter 2.8 --- Chemical Denaturation Experiment of HBx and XIP --- p.36 / Chapter 2.8.1 --- Preparation of Urea Buffers for the Chemical Denaturation of HBx --- p.37 / Chapter 2.8.2 --- Preparation of Different GdnHCI Buffer for the Chemical Denaturation of XIP --- p.38 / Chapter 2.8.3 --- Calculation for Chemical Denaturation Experiment --- p.39 / Chapter 2.8.3.1 --- Protein Concentration Calculation --- p.39 / Chapter 2.8.3.2 --- Residual Molar Elipticity Calculation --- p.39 / Chapter 2.8.3.3 --- Free Energy Change (ΔGu) Calculation --- p.40 / Chapter 2.9 --- Two-dimensional Heteronuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Experiment --- p.41 / Chapter 2.10 --- Interaction Confirmation between HBx and XIP --- p.42 / Chapter 2.10.1 --- "Transfection of pEGFP, pEGFP-HBx and pEGFP-XIP into HepG2" --- p.42 / Chapter 2.10.2 --- Yeast Two Hybrid System for Confirmation of HBx and XIP Interaction --- p.44 / Chapter 2.10.2.1 --- Preparation of Y187 Competent Cells --- p.44 / Chapter 2.10.2.2 --- Transformation of pGBKT7-HBx and pACT2-XIP into Y187 --- p.45 / Chapter 2.10.2.3 --- β-galactosidase Colony Lift Assay --- p.46 / Chapter Chapter 3 --- "Expression, Purification and Characterization of Hepatitis B Virus X Protein (HBx)" / Chapter 3.1 --- Introduction --- p.47 / Chapter 3.2 --- Construction of Recombinant HBx-pRSETA and 6xHis-HBx-pRSETA Plasmids --- p.48 / Chapter 3.3 --- Expression of 6xHis-HBx in E. coli C41 (DE3) using M9ZB Medium --- p.52 / Chapter 3.4 --- Expression of HBx in E. coli C41 (DE3) using M9ZB Medium --- p.54 / Chapter 3.5 --- Purification and Refolding of 6xHis-HBx Fusion Proteins --- p.56 / Chapter 3.6 --- Purification and Refolding of HBx Proteins --- p.60 / Chapter 3.7 --- Structural Characterization of Refolded HBx --- p.65 / Chapter 3.7.1 --- Introduction --- p.55 / Chapter 3.7.2 --- Experimental Analysis of HBx Secondary Structure --- p.66 / Chapter 3.7.3 --- Chemical Unfolding Experiment of HBx --- p.68 / Chapter 3.8 --- Discussion --- p.70 / Chapter 3.8.1 --- "HBx was Expressed, Purified and Characterized instead of 6xHis-HBx" --- p.71 / Chapter 3.8.2 --- High Concentration of DTT was used to Minimize Formation of HBx Aggregates --- p.72 / Chapter 3.8.3 --- Oxidative Refolding to Ensure Proper Disulfide Bond Formation --- p.73 / Chapter 3.8.4 --- Computational Prediction and Experimental Prediction of Secondary Structure of HBx --- p.75 / Chapter 3.9 --- Concluding Remarks --- p.77 / Chapter Chapter 4 --- "Expression, Purification and Characterization of HBx-lnteracting Protein (XIP)" / Chapter 4.1 --- Introduction --- p.78 / Chapter 4.2 --- Construction of Recombinant XIP-pET8C --- p.78 / Chapter 4.3 --- Expression of XIP in E. coli C41 (DE3) using M9ZB and M9 Mediums --- p.82 / Chapter 4.4 --- Screening of Chromatographic Conditions for the Purification of XIP --- p.83 / Chapter 4.4.1 --- Introduction --- p.83 / Chapter 4.4.2 --- Purification Details --- p.83 / Chapter 4.5 --- Purification of XIP by HiTrap Phenyl HP 5-ml Column --- p.87 / Chapter 4.6 --- Purification of XIP by HiLoad 26/60 Superdex 75 Prep Grade --- p.89 / Chapter 4.7 --- Structural Characterization of XIP --- p.92 / Chapter 4.7.1 --- CD Spectrum --- p.92 / Chapter 4.7.2 --- Chemical Denaturation Experiment of XIP --- p.93 / Chapter 4.7.3 --- Two-Dimensional Heteronuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectrum of 15N Labeled XIP --- p.95 / Chapter 4.8 --- Discussion --- p.97 / Chapter 4.8.1 --- Purification Method Development --- p.97 / Chapter 4.8.2 --- "Do Different Protein Cosolutes, Protein Stabilizers and Detergents Help XIP to Adopt a Stable Conformation?" --- p.99 / Chapter 4.9 --- Concluding Remarks --- p.101 / Chapter Chapter 5 --- In vivo Studies of HBx and XIP Interactions / Chapter 5.1 --- Investigation of Sub-Cellular Localization of HBx and XIP in Liver Cells --- p.102 / Chapter 5.1.1 --- Introduction --- p.102 / Chapter 5.1.2 --- "Construction of Recombinant HBx-pECFP-C1, HBx-pEGFP-C1, HBx-pEYFP-C1 and XIP-pECFP-C1, XIP-pEGFP-C1, XIP-pEYFP-C1" --- p.103 / Chapter 5.1.3 --- Transfection of pEGFP-C1 HBx and pEGFP-C1 XIP into HepG2 to Find Out HBx and XIP Sub-Cellular Localization --- p.106 / Chapter 5.1.3.1 --- Introduction --- p.107 / Chapter 5.1.3.2 --- Investigation of EGFP Proteins Expression using the Confocal Microscope and the Leica TCS Software --- p.108 / Chapter 5.1.4 --- Discussion and Future Prospects --- p.111 / Chapter 5.2 --- Interaction of HBx and XIP Studied by Yeast Two-Hybrid System --- p.113 / Chapter 5.2.1 --- Introduction --- p.113 / Chapter 5.2.2 --- Construction of Recombinant HBx-pGBKT7 and XIP-pACT2 Plasmids --- p.114 / Chapter 5.2.3 --- Confirmation of HBx and XIP Interaction by Yeast Two-Hybrid System --- p.117 / Chapter 5.2.4 --- Discussion --- p.121 / Chapter Chapter 6 --- Conclusion --- p.123 / Appendix I Sequence of HBx and XIP --- p.I / Chapter II --- Vector Sequences --- p.II / Chapter III --- Vector Maps --- p.VI / Chapter IV --- Electrophoresis Markers --- p.XI / Chapter V --- Agarose Gel Electrophoresis --- p.XII / Chapter VI --- SDS-PAGE Eectrophoresis --- p.XIII / Chapter VII --- Medium for Bacterial Culture --- p.XV / Chapter VIII --- Medium for Cell Culture --- p.XVII / Chapter IX --- Medium for Yeast Culture --- p.XVIII / Chapter X --- Buffers for Yeast Transformation --- p.XIX / Reference --- p.XX

by Cheung Yuen-Nei. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2002. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 194-208). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / Acknowledgement --- p.i / Abstract --- p.ii / 摘要 --- p.iv / Contents --- p.vi / List of Figures --- p.xii / List of Tables --- p.xv / Abbreviations --- p.xvi / Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.2 / Chapter 1.1 --- Characteristic of Saponins --- p.3 / Chapter 1.1.1 --- Occurrence of Saponins --- p.3 / Chapter 1.1.2 --- General Properties of Saponins --- p.3 / Chapter 1.1.2.1 --- Emulsifying Agents --- p.3 / Chapter 1.2.2.2 --- Forming Complex with Cholesterol --- p.4 / Chapter 1.1.2.3 --- Hemolytic Property --- p.4 / Chapter 1.1.3 --- Structure of Saponins --- p.5 / Chapter 1.1.3.1 --- Categories of Saponins --- p.5 / Chapter 1.1.3.1.1 --- Triterpene Saponins --- p.5 / Chapter 1.1.3.1.2 --- Steroid Saponins --- p.5 / Chapter 1.1.3.2 --- Monodesmosidic and Bidesmosidic Saponins --- p.7 / Chapter 1.1.4 --- Biological and Pharmacological Properties of Saponins --- p.9 / Chapter 1.1.4.1 --- Anti-microbial Activity --- p.9 / Chapter 1.1.4.1.1 --- Anti-fungal Activities --- p.9 / Chapter 1.1.4.1.2 --- Anti-bacterial Activities --- p.10 / Chapter 1.1.4.1.3 --- Anti-viral Activities --- p.10 / Chapter 1.1.4.2 --- Insecticidal Activity --- p.10 / Chapter 1.1.4.3 --- Molluscicidal Activity --- p.10 / Chapter 1.1.4.4 --- Hypocholesterolemic Activity --- p.11 / Chapter 1.1.4.5 --- Anti-ulcer Activity --- p.11 / Chapter 1.1.4.6 --- Contraceptive Activity --- p.12 / Chapter 1.1.4.7 --- Immunomodulatory Activities --- p.12 / Chapter 1.1.4.7.1 --- Direct Immunostimulation --- p.12 / Chapter 1.1.4.7.2 --- Acting as Immuno-adjuvants --- p.13 / Chapter 1.1.4.8 --- Anti-tumor Activity --- p.14 / Chapter 1.1.4.8.1 --- Anti-carcinogenesis --- p.15 / Chapter 1.1.4.8.2 --- Suppression of Tumor Growth --- p.16 / Chapter 1.1.5 --- Anti-tumor Activity of Steroid Saponins --- p.18 / Chapter 1.1.5.1 --- Diosgenin Steroid Saponin --- p.18 / Chapter 1.1.5.2 --- Hong Kong Compounds --- p.18 / Chapter 1.1.5.3 --- Hong Kong18 --- p.21 / Chapter 1.2 --- Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) --- p.24 / Chapter 1.2.1 --- The Incidence of Liver Cancer --- p.24 / Chapter 1.2.2 --- Classification of Liver Cancer --- p.24 / Chapter 1.2.3 --- Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines --- p.25 / Chapter 1.2.3.1 --- Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line HepG2 --- p.25 / Chapter 1.2.3.2 --- Multidrug Resistant Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line R-HepG2 --- p.27 / Chapter 1.2.3.2.1 --- Mechanisms of Multidrug Resistance --- p.28 / Chapter 1.2.3.2.2 --- Structure and Characteristics of P-glycoprotein --- p.29 / Chapter 1.2.3.2.3 --- Methods in Dealing with P-glycoprotein Over-expressed MDR Cells --- p.31 / Chapter 1.3 --- Objectives of the Project --- p.32 / Chapter 1.3.1 --- Study of the Anti-tumor Activities of Hong Kong 18 on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line HepG2 and Unravel the Underlying Mechanisms --- p.32 / Chapter 1.3.2 --- Study of the Anti-tumor Activities of Hong Kong 18on Multidrug Resistant Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line R-HepG2 and Unravel the Underlying Mechanisms --- p.32 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.33 / Chapter 2.1 --- Materials --- p.34 / Chapter 2.1.1 --- Cell Culture --- p.34 / Chapter 2.1.1.1 --- Cell Lines --- p.34 / Chapter 2.1.1.2 --- Culture Media --- p.35 / Chapter 2.1.2 --- Reagents and Buffers --- p.36 / Chapter 2.1.2.1 --- Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) --- p.36 / Chapter 2.1.2.2 --- Reagents and Buffers for DNA Fragmentation --- p.36 / Chapter 2.1.2.3 --- Reagents and Buffers for Western Analysis --- p.37 / Chapter 2.1.2.4 --- Reagents and Buffer for Caspases Activities --- p.39 / Chapter 2.1.2.5 --- Fluorescent Dyes used for Flow Cytometry --- p.39 / Chapter 2.1.3 --- Chemicals --- p.39 / Chapter 2.2 --- Methods --- p.46 / Chapter 2.2.1 --- MTT Assay --- p.46 / Chapter 2.2.2 --- Determination of Cell Viability --- p.46 / Chapter 2.2.3 --- Purification of Macrophages from balb/c Mice --- p.47 / Chapter 2.2.4 --- Hemolysis Assay --- p.47 / Chapter 2.2.5 --- In vivo Studies of the Toxicity of HK18 --- p.48 / Chapter 2.2.6 --- DNA Fragmentation Assay --- p.50 / Chapter 2.2.7 --- Detection of Apoptotic and Necrotic / Late Apoptotic Cells Death by Flow Cytometry with Annexin V-FITC / PI --- p.51 / Chapter 2.2.8 --- Detection of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential by JC-1 Fluorescent Dye --- p.52 / Chapter 2.2.9 --- Detection of Intracellular Ca Level by Flow Cytometry with Fluo-3 Fluorescent Dye --- p.52 / Chapter 2.2.10 --- Detection of Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide Level by Flow Cytometry with DCF Fluorescence Dye --- p.53 / Chapter 2.2.11 --- Simultaneous Detection of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential and Intracellular Ca2+ or Mitochondrial Membrane Potential and Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide --- p.54 / Chapter 2.2.12 --- Western Analysis --- p.55 / Chapter 2.2.12.1 --- Total Protein Extraction --- p.55 / Chapter 2.2.12.2 --- Extraction of Cytosolic Proteins --- p.59 / Chapter 2.2.13 --- Determination of Caspases Enzymatic Activity --- p.63 / Chapter 2.2.14 --- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) --- p.67 / Chapter 2.2.14.1 --- RNA Extraction by TRIzol Reagent --- p.67 / Chapter 2.2.14.2 --- Reverse Transcription --- p.68 / Chapter 2.2.14.3 --- Polymerase Chain Reaction --- p.68 / Chapter 2.3 --- Statistic Analysis --- p.71 / Chapter Chapter 3 --- Cytotoxicity of HK18 --- p.72 / Chapter 3.1 --- Cytotoxicity of HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.73 / Chapter 3.1.1 --- Study of the Cytotoxic Activity of HK18 on HepG2 Cells by MTT Assay --- p.73 / Chapter 3.1.2 --- Study of the Cytotoxic Activity of HK18 on HepG2 Cells by Tryphan Blue Exclusion Assay --- p.76 / Chapter 3.2 --- Cytotoxicity of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.78 / Chapter 3.2.1 --- Study of the Cytotoxic Activity of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells by MTT Assay --- p.78 / Chapter 3.2.2 --- Study of the Cytotoxic Activity of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells by Tryphan Blue Exclusion Assay --- p.81 / Chapter 3.3 --- Cytotoxicity of HK18 on Macrophages --- p.83 / Chapter 3.4 --- Hemolytic Activity of HK18 --- p.85 / Chapter 3.5 --- In vivo Study of the Toxicity of HK18 --- p.87 / Chapter Chapter 4 --- Mechanistic Study of HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.90 / Chapter 4.1 --- Hallmarks of Apoptosis Induced by HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.91 / Chapter 4.1.1 --- Induction of Phosphatidylserine Externalization by HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.91 / Chapter 4.1.2 --- Induction of DNA Fragmentation by HK18 of HepG2 Cells --- p.97 / Chapter 4.2 --- Study of the Underlying Mechanisms of HK18 Induced Apoptosis in HepG2 Cells --- p.99 / Chapter 4.2.1 --- The Role of Mitochondria in HK18 Induced Apoptosis of HepG2 Cells --- p.99 / Chapter 4.2.1.1 --- HK18 Induced Mitochondrial Membrane Depolarization in HepG2 Cells --- p.101 / Chapter 4.2.1.2 --- Addition of Bongkrekic Acid Reduced HK18 Cytotoxicity on HepG2 Cells --- p.105 / Chapter 4.2.1.3 --- Elevation of Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide Level in HK18 Treated HepG2 Cells --- p.108 / Chapter 4.2.1.4 --- Elevation of Intracellular Ca2+ Level in HK18 Treated HepG2 Cells --- p.114 / Chapter 4.2.1.5 --- HK18 Induced Cytochrome c and AIF Released from Mitochondria of HepG2 Cells --- p.120 / Chapter 4.3 --- Downstream Biochemical Changes Induced by HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.123 / Chapter 4.3.1 --- Activation of Caspase 3 of HepG2 Cells by HK18 as Demonstrated by Western Blot --- p.123 / Chapter 4.3.2 --- Induction of Caspases Activities of HepG2 Cells by HK18 as Demonstrated by Enzymatic Activity Assays --- p.125 / Chapter 4.4 --- Down-regulation of Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 Family Members of HepG2 Cells by HK18 --- p.129 / Chapter Chapter 5 --- Mechanistic Study of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.133 / Chapter 5.1 --- Hallmarks of Apoptosis Induced by HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.134 / Chapter 5.1.1 --- Induction of Phosphatidylserine Externalization by HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.134 / Chapter 5.1.2 --- Induction of DNA Fragmentation by HK18 of R-HepG2 Cells --- p.137 / Chapter 5.2 --- Study of the Underlying Mechanisms of HK18 Induced Apoptosis in R-HepG2 Cells --- p.139 / Chapter 5.2.1 --- The Role of Mitochondria in HK18 Induced Apoptosis of R-HepG2 Cells --- p.139 / Chapter 5.2.1.1 --- HK18 Induced Mitochondrial Membrane Depolarization in R-HepG2 Cells --- p.139 / Chapter 5.2.1.2 --- Addition of Bongkrekic Acid Reduced HK18 Cytotoxicity on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.142 / Chapter 5.2.1.3 --- Elevation of Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide Level in HK18 Treated R-HepG2 Cells --- p.144 / Chapter 5.2.1.4 --- Elevation of Intracellular Ca2+ Level in HK18 Treated R-HepG2 Cells --- p.146 / Chapter 5.3 --- Downstream Biochemical Changes Induced by HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.148 / Chapter 5.3.1 --- Activation of Caspase 3 of R-HepG2 Cells by HK18 as Demonstrated by Western Blot --- p.148 / Chapter 5.3.2 --- Induction of Caspases Activation of R-HepG2 Cells by HK18 as Demonstrated by Enzymatic Activity Assays --- p.150 / Chapter 5.4 --- Down-regulation of the Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 Protein of R-HepG2 Cells by HK18 --- p.154 / Chapter 5.5 --- HK18 was Not a Substrate of P-glycoprotein Contents --- p.156 / Chapter Chapter 6 --- Discussion --- p.158 / Chapter 6.1 --- Cytotoxicity of HK18 --- p.159 / Chapter 6.1.1 --- HK18 was Cytotoxic to the Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line HepG2 and Multidrug Resistant Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line R-HepG2 --- p.159 / Chapter 6.1.2 --- Study of the Toxicity of HK18 --- p.160 / Chapter 6.2 --- Mechanistic Studies of the Cytotoxic Effects of HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.161 / Chapter 6.2.1 --- Apoptotic Cell Death Induction of HK18 on HepG2 Cells --- p.161 / Chapter 6.2.2 --- Studies of the Underlying Mechanisms of HK18 Induced Apoptosis of HepG2 Cells --- p.162 / Chapter 6.3 --- Mechanistic Studies of the Cytotoxic Effects of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.181 / Chapter 6.3.1 --- Apoptotic Cell Death Induction of HK18 on R-HepG2 Cells --- p.181 / Chapter 6.3.2 --- Studies of the Underlying Mechanisms of HK18 Induced Apoptosis of HepG2 Cells --- p.181 / Chapter Chapter 7 --- Future Perspectives --- p.190 / Chapter Chapter 8 --- References --- p.193

Zhang, Bin. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2013. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 154-187). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese.

Ng Wah. / Thesis submitted in: August 2006. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2007. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 101-113). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / ABSTRACT --- p.II / 摘要 --- p.IV / ACKNOWLEDGEMENT --- p.VI / TABLE OF CONTENTS --- p.VII / LIST OF TABLES --- p.X / LIST OF FIGURES --- p.XI / ABBREVIATIONS --- p.XII / Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter 1.1 --- Introduction --- p.2 / Chapter 1.2 --- Etiological Factors of Hepatocellualr Carcinoma (HCC) --- p.4 / Chapter 1.2.1 --- Dietary Aflatoxins --- p.4 / Chapter 1.2.2 --- Liver Cirrhosis --- p.5 / Chapter 1.2.3 --- Alcohol Abuse --- p.6 / Chapter 1.2.4 --- Viral Hepatitis Infection --- p.6 / Chapter 1.3 --- Literature Review on the Investigations of HBV Integrants in HCC --- p.16 / Chapter 1.3.1 --- Affected Host Junctions --- p.17 / Chapter 1.3.2 --- Viral Junctions --- p.18 / Chapter 1.4 --- Restriction Site Polymerase Chain Reaction (RS-PCR) --- p.19 / Chapter 1.5 --- Aims of Thesis --- p.21 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.22 / Chapter 2.1 --- Materials --- p.23 / Chapter 2.1.1 --- Chemicals --- p.23 / Chapter 2.1.2 --- Buffers --- p.24 / Chapter 2.1.3 --- Cell Cultures --- p.24 / Chapter 2.1.4 --- Nucleic Acids --- p.24 / Chapter 2.1.5 --- Enzymes --- p.25 / Chapter 2.1.6 --- Equipment --- p.25 / Chapter 2.1.7 --- Software and Web Resources --- p.26 / Chapter 2.2 --- Methods --- p.27 / Chapter 2.2.1 --- DNA Extraction --- p.27 / Chapter 2.2.2 --- RS-PCR --- p.31 / Chapter 2.2.3 --- Sequencing --- p.37 / Chapter 2.2.4 --- Spectral Karyotyping (SKY) --- p.38 / Chapter 2.2.5 --- Fluorescence In situ hybridization --- p.39 / Chapter Chapter 3 --- Investigation of HBV Integration Sites in HCC Cell lines --- p.45 / Chapter 3.1 --- Introduction --- p.46 / Chapter 3.2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.47 / Chapter 3.2.1 --- Cell Lines --- p.47 / Chapter 3.2.2 --- RS-PCR --- p.47 / Chapter 3.2.3 --- Spectral Karyotyping --- p.48 / Chapter 3.2.4 --- Tyramide Signal Amplification for HBV in FISH Analysis --- p.48 / Chapter 3.3 --- Results --- p.51 / Chapter 3.3.1 --- Identification of HBV Integration Sites in Cell Lines --- p.51 / Chapter 3.3.2 --- Evaluation of RSO Primer Efficiency --- p.52 / Chapter 3.3.3 --- SKY and FISH Analysis --- p.53 / Chapter 3.4 --- Discussion --- p.64 / Chapter 3.4.1 --- HBV Insertions in HCC Cell Lines --- p.64 / Chapter 3.4.2 --- Efficacy of RSO Primers --- p.65 / Chapter 3.4.3 --- Investigation of HBV Integration on Chromosomal Rearrangement --- p.65 / Chapter Chapter 4 --- Investigation of Hepatitis B Virus Integration Sites in Primary HCC --- p.67 / Chapter 4.1 --- Introduction --- p.68 / Chapter 4.2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.69 / Chapter 4.2.1 --- Patients --- p.69 / Chapter 4.2.2 --- RS-PCR --- p.70 / Chapter 4.3 --- Results --- p.72 / Chapter 4.3.1 --- HBV Integration Sites in Primary HCC Tumors and Adjacent Non- malignant Liver --- p.72 / Chapter 4.4 --- Discussion --- p.88 / Chapter 4.4.1 --- HBV integration Sites in Primary HCC Tumors and Adjacent Non- malignant Liver --- p.88 / Chapter 4.4.2 --- Summary on HBV Integrants Identified --- p.91 / Chapter Chapter 5 --- Proposed Future Studies --- p.98 / Chapter 5.1 --- Correlation of Structural Aberrations with HBV Integrations --- p.99 / Chapter 5.2 --- Transcriptional Expression Study on the Genes Interrupted by or Located near the Virus Host Junctions --- p.100 / Chapter Chapter 6 --- References --- p.101

Xu, Jiaying. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2013. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 98-107). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstracts also in Chinese.

Introdução: O carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC) é o câncer primário de fígado mais comum e está associado com a segunda menor taxa de sobrevida em 5 anos de todos os tipos de tumores. A melatonina (Mel) é uma potente molécula antioxidante que se tem mostrado benéfica em diversas situações patológicas, incluindo o CHC. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da Mel sobre marcadores de estresse oxidativo e angiogênicos no tecido hepático de ratos Wistar no modelo experimental de carcinogênese hepática induzida por dietilnitrosamina (DEN) associado ao acetilaminofluoreno (2-AAF). Métodos: 32 ratos machos Wistar (150g) foram divididos em 4 grupos: Controle (CO); Controle+Mel (CO+Mel); DEN e DEN+Mel. O DEN (50mg/kg) foi administrado por via intraperitoneal duas/uma vez por semana, associado a uma única dose de 2-AAF (100mg/kg). A Mel foi administrada na água de beber dos animais na concentração final de 20 mg/L e o tratamento teve início na 12ª semana perdurando até o fim das 19 semanas de experimento. O sangue dos animais foi coletado para as análises de AST, ALT, FA, γ-GT e amostras de fígado utilizadas para avaliar a lipoperoxidação (LPO), a atividade das enzimas antioxidantes (CAT, GPx e GST), os níveis de GSH e de metabólitos do óxido nítrico, a análise histógica e as proteínas envolvidas na angiogênese tumoral (VEGF, PI3K, p-Akt e eNOS). Resultados: O dano tecidual e o processo fibrogênico presentes no parênquima hepático estavam diminuídos no grupo DEN+Mel, assim como o nível de TBARS e a atividade da enzima GST quando comparados ao grupo DEN. A atividade da CAT mostrou-se aumentada no grupo DEN+Mel quando comparada ao grupo DEN. No processo angiogênio, a expressão de VEGF, PI3K, p-Akt mostrou-se diminuída no grupo DEN+Mel enquanto a expressão da eNOS apresentou-se aumentada quando comparado ao grupo DEN. Conclusão: Constatamos que a Mel foi capaz de minimizar os danos no parênquima hepático, de diminuir a LPO, modular a atividade da CAT, além de mostrar-se eficaz na redução de VEGF e da via PI3K/Akt no modelo experimental de carcinogênese hepática. / Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (CHC) is the most common primary liver cancer and is associated with the second lowest 5-year survival rate of all tumor types. Melatonin (Mel) is a powerful antioxidant molecule that has been demonstrated to be beneficial in various pathological conditions, including HCC. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Mel on oxidative stress and angiogenic markers in liver tissue of Wistar rats in the experimental model of hepatic carcinogenesis induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF). Methods: 32 male Wistar rats (150g) were divided into 4 groups: Control (CO); Control+Mel (CO+Mel); DEN and DEN+Mel. DEN (50mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally once or twice a week, associated with a single dose of 2-AAF (100mg/kg). Mel was given in drinking water at the final concentration of 20 mg/L and the treatment was started at 12th week and continued until the end of the 19 weeks of experiment. Blood samples were collected for AST, ALT, AP, γ-GT and liver samples were used to evaluate lipid peroxidation (LPO), activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, GPx and GST), levels of GSH and nitric oxide levels, histological analysis and expression of proteins involved in tumor angiogenesis (VEGF, PI3K, p-Akt and eNOS). Results: The tissue damage and the fibrogenic process present in the hepatic parenchyma were decreased as well as the levels of TBARS and the activity of GST in the group DEN+Mel when compared to DEN group. CAT activity was increased in DEN+Mel group when we compared with DEN group. The expression of VEGF, PI3K, p-Akt was decreased in DEN+Mel group while eNOS expression was increased when compared to DEN group. Conclusion: Mel was able to minimize damage in the hepatic parenchyma, reduce LPO, modulate the activity of CAT and reduce VEGF and the PI3K/Akt pathway in a experimental model of hepatic carcinogenesis.

Racional: O carcinoma hepatocelular é uma neoplasia maligna agressiva com elevada morbidade e mortalidade. Objetivo: Revisão da literatura sobre o diagnóstico e o manejo do carcinoma hepatocelular nos vários estágios da doença. Método: Revisão da literatura utilizando a base Medline/PubMed e literatura adicional. Resultados: O carcinoma hepatocelular é geralmente complicação da cirrose hepática. As hepatites virais crônicas B e C também são fatores de risco para o surgimento do carcinoma hepatocelular. Quando associado à cirrose hepática, o carcinoma hepatocelular geralmente surge a partir da evolução de um nódulo regenerativo hepatocitário que sofre degeneração maligna. O diagnóstico é efetuado através de tomografia computadorizada de abdome com contraste endovenoso (efeito wash in e wash out), e a ressonância magnética pode auxiliar nos casos que não possam ser definidos pela tomografia computadorizada. O único tratamento potencialmente curativo para o carcinoma hepatocelular é a ressecção do tumor, seja ela realizada através de hepatectomia parcial ou de transplante. Infelizmente, apenas cerca de 15% dos carcinomas hepatocelulares são passíveis de tratamento cirúrgico. Pacientes portadores de cirrose hepática estágio Child B e C não devem ser submetidos à ressecção hepática parcial. Para esses pacientes, as opções terapêuticas curativas restringem-se ao transplante de fígado, desde que selecionáveis para esse procedimento, o que na maioria dos países dá-se através dos Critérios de Milão (lesão única com até 5 cm de diâmetro ou até três lesões de até 3 cm de diâmetro). A sobrevida em 5 anos para pacientes transplantados para o carcinoma hepatocelular pode alcançar 70% Conclusão: Quando diagnosticado em seus estágios iniciais, o carcinoma hepatocelular é potencialmente curável. O conhecimento das estratégias de 17 diagnóstico e tratamento do carcinoma hepatocelular a fim propiciam sua identificação precoce e a indicação de tratamento apropriado. / Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma is an aggressive malignant tumor with high lethality. Aim: A literature review on diagnosis and management of hepatocellular carcinoma was performed. Methods: Literature review utilizing databases Medline/PubMed. Results: Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common complication of hepatic cirrhosis. Chronic viral hepatitis B and C also constitute as risk factors for development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In patients with cirrhosis, hepatocelular carcinoma usually develops from a malignant transformation of a dysplastic regenerative nodule. Diagnosis is confirmed through computed tomography scan with intravenous contrast (wash in and wash out effect), and magnetic resonance may be helpful in some instances. Curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma may be performed through partial liver resection or liver transplantation. Only 15% of all hepatocellular carcinomas are localized and amenable to operative treatment. Patients with Child C liver cirrhosis are not amenable to partial liver resections. The only curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinomas in patients with Child B or C cirrhosis is liver transplantation. In most countries, only patients with hepatocellular carcinoma under Milan Criteria (single tumor with up to 5 cm diameter or up to three nodules with a maximum diameter of 3 cm) are considered candidates for liver transplant. Five-year survival following liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma may reach 70%. Conclusion: Hepatocellular carcinoma is a potentially curable neoplasm if discovered in its initial stages. Clinicians and surgeons should be familiar with strategies for early diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma as a way to decrease mortality associated with this malignant neoplasm.

Les carcinomes hépatocellulaires (CHC) mutés CTNNB1 ont des caractéristiques phénotypiques propres en termes de polarité et de métabolisme (absence de stéatose). Nous avons émis l’hypothèse que ce phénotype pouvait être secondaire à l’activation du gène suppresseur de tumeurs LKB1 qui code une Ser/Thr kinase multitâches.Nous avons tout d’abord montré qu’il existait effectivement un dialogue complexe entre les voies Wnt/β-Caténine et LKB1 dans le foie. Les mutations de CTNNB1 sont en effet capables d’induire l’expression protéique de LKB1 dans des lignées hépatomateuses humaines, et les CHC mutés CTNNB1 présentent une expression protéique accrue de LKB1 et une signature transcriptionnelle d’activation de LKB1. De plus, dans deux modèles murins d’invalidation hépatospécifique de Lkb1, LKB1 est apparu comme requis pour l’activation complète du programme transcriptionnel de β-Caténine mais de façon dépendante du stade de développement et du contexte nutritionnel. Enfin, la signalisation LKB1 est apparue comme nécessaire à la survie des hépatocytes activés pour β-Caténine dans deux modèles murins différents.Nous avons aussi caractérisé les rôles métaboliques de LKB1 dans le foie. L’invalidation hépatospécifique de Lkb1 induisait une augmentation progressive de la masse grasse corporelle avec utilisation préférentielle des glucides comme substrat énergétique. Il existait une activation de la néoglucogenèse hépatique avec hyperglycémie et une lipogenèse accrue avec accumulation hépatocytaire de lipides. Enfin, nous avons mis en évidence une activation paradoxale de la signalisation AKT dans les hépatocytes, même à jeun, et une dépendance énergétique aux acides aminés. Enfin, nous avons identifié une nouvelle isoforme protéique de LKB1 délétée de son domaine N-Terminal et d’une partie de son domaine kinase. D’expression tissulaire préférentiellement musculaire et myocardique, cette isoforme catalytiquement inactive se comportait comme dominant positif sur l’activation de l’AMPK par la forme conventionnelle mais comme dominant négatif dans l’activité polarisation induite par LKB1. Enfin, elle était capable d’induire, en l’absence de la forme conventionnelle, la prolifération cellulaire et la tumorigenèse chez la souris nude. Elle pourrait exercer des rôles métaboliques particuliers dans les tissus fortement oxydatifs et des rôles oncogéniques dans certains contextes. / CTNNB1-Mutated hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) share a specific polarity and metabolic phenotype without steatosis. We hypothesized that such phenotype could imply the tumor suppressor gene LKB1 that encodes for a multi-Task Ser/Thr kinase.We first demonstrated that a complex crosstalk indeed exists in the liver between LKB1 and the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway. LKB1 proteic expression was controlled by mutant β-Catenin in hepatomatous cell line and CTNNB1-Mutated HCCs had an enhanced LKB1 proteic expression as well a transcriptomic signature of LKB1 activation. In two mouse model of liver-Specific invalidation of Lkb1, we showed that LKB1 was required for full activation of the β-Catenin transcriptomic program, but it depended on the developmental stage and nutritional context. At least, LKB1 appeared to be required for the survival of β-Catenin activated liver cells in two other mouse models.Then, we wanted to caracterize the metabolic roles of LKB1 in the liver. Liver-Specific invalidation of Lkb1 progressively raised the body fat mass and we observed that carbohydrates were preferred as whole-Body energetic fuel. In the liver, gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis were enhanced, resulting in mild hyperglycemia and lipid accumulation in the hepatocytes. At least, we identified an aberrant activation of the AKT signaling in the liver, even during fasting, and an energetic dependence towards amino acids.At least, we identified a novel LKB1 proteic isoform that is deleted of its N-Terminal domain and part of its kinase domain. Highly expressed in the muscle and in the heart, this catalytically inactive isoform however acted as a positive dominant towards AMPK activation by full length LKB1 but as a negative dominant towards LKB1-Induced cell polarization. This isoform is also able to enhance cell proliferation and to induce tumors in a xenograft model, even when expressed alone. It could play specific metabolic roles in oxidative tissues and could be oncogenic in some contexts.

La voie de signalisation WNT/β-caténine est impliquée dans de nombreuses processi cellulaires, du développement à la physiologie. Dans le foie adulte, elle est nécessaire pour établir et maintenir la zonation métabolique, condition préalable pour la fonctionnalité de l’organe, mais elle est aussi cause d’un pourcentage non négligeable (11-32%) de carcinomes hépatocellulaires (CHC), qui surviennent après mutation activatrice du gène codant la β-caténine. Mes travaux se sont inscrits dans la continuité de travaux de l’équipe auxquels j’ai participé , et ont eu pour principaux objectifs : (1) d’explorer le rôle du facteur de transcription Hnf4α dans la physiologie et les cancers du foie, en lien avec la signalisation β-caténine ; (2) de déterminer si une imagerie tumorale par tomographie par émission de positrons (TEP) spécifique de la captation de choline pouvait prédire les CHC mutés pour la β-caténine et si le métabolisme de la choline pouvait présenter une piste thérapeutique des cancers du foie.Pour ces deux projets, j’ai eu accès à des cohortes de patients atteints de cancers du foie, mais j’ai également pu bénéficier du modèle gain-de-fonction de la β-caténine développé au laboratoire, qui consiste en une perte du suppresseur de tumeur Apc, frein majeur de la voie β-caténine conduisant à des cancers du foie. Grâce à un modèle d’invalidation hepato-spécifique et conditionnelle du gène Hnf4α, j’ai pu prouver que la perte de Hnf4α mène à une augmentation de la prolifération, du stockage des lipides dans le foie et à une désorganisation de l’architecture zonale hépatique, en particulier celle de la triade portale. J’ai aussi démontré que dans un contexte de carcinome murin invalidé par Apc, le rôle suppresseur de tumeur d’Hnf4α était mineur.Une approche métabolomique avait montré qu’un signal β-caténine perturbait le métabolisme des phospholipides dérivant de la choline. Grâce à une étude parallèle réalisée chez des patients porteurs de CHC d’une part, et dans nos modèles murins d’autre part, nous avons pu mettre en évidence par TEP une fixation accrue de la F-choline dans les tumeurs activées β-caténine. Ce phénotype est spécifique d’une signalisation β-caténine active puisque cette captation accrue n’était pas présente chez les patients porteurs de carcinome hépatocellulaire non mutés ou chez les souris présentant une cancérogenèse indépendante de la β-caténine (modèle DEN). J’ai ensuite étudié le devenir intracellulaire de la choline. En utilisant de la choline radiomarquée j’ai montré in vitro qu’un signal β-caténine aberrant accroit l’incorporation de choline dans les phospholipides, et accroit également son rôle de donneur de groupements méthyles, participant à la méthylation de l’ADN. Cela pourrait expliquer pourquoi l’ADN est hyperméthylé chez les souris avec la perte d’Apc, puisque l’administration d’un régime sans choline et methionine à ces souris réverse le phénotype d’hyperméthylation. L’ensemble de ces résultats suggère que la choline pourrait jouer un rôle important dans la cancérogenèse liée à la β-caténine. Nous proposons que des TEP F-choline pourraient être utilisés pour diagnostiquer les CHC mutés β-caténine, et à terme des thérapies ciblées sur ce métabolisme pourraient être envisagées. / WNT/β-catenin is a pillar during development and in adult physiology. In particular in the adult liver it is a double-edged sword: it is necessary to establish the metabolic zonation, requirement for having a functional organ, but it is also involved in the onset of 11-32% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). My thesis work has been based on the team previous results and it is focused on two main subjects: (1) the first aim was to decipher the role of Hnf4α both in physiology and in HCC development and its relationship with WNT/β-catenin signalling and (2) the second part explores the possible use of Fluoro-choline (FCh) positron emission tomography (PET) in the diagnosis of β-catenin-activated liver tumours.In this study I used cohorts of patients having HCC, but also inducible and hepatospecific knock-out mice for adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene (thereafter called ApcKO mice). Apc is the most important negative regulator of β-catenin, and it hepatic loss leads to aberrant activation of β-catenin, disrupting liver zonation and initiating long-term liver cancers. I generated also inducible hepatospecific Hnf4α knock-out mice and I demonstrated an increased proliferation, lipids accumulation and disorganization in the portal triad architecture, together with a mild distruption of liver zonation. Then, looking at cancer onset, I demonstrated that Hnf4α loss is not able per se to initiate liver cancer, and has no tumour suppressor role in β-catenin activated tumours onset and progression.We performed a metabolic analysis of ApcKO livers, showing that β-catenin is able to deregulate lipids metabolism, in particular that of phospholipids derived from choline. In collaboration with clinicians, I studied human patients who underwent FCh/PET, showing that β-catenin-mutated tumours had an increased uptaken of F-Choline whereas non-mutated β-catenin human HCC had not. Similar results were obtained with mice, either ApcKO β-catenin-activated HCC or β-catenin-independent mice HCC, obtained through a N-diethylinitrosamine (DEN) injection.Choline in cells splits in two main pathways: it is both a methyl-group donor and a precursor for phospholipids production. I tested this through radiolabeled fluxes in in vitro experiments. In β-catenin activated hepatocytes and tumours there are more phospholipids and more methyl groups in DNA derived from choline than in control mice. Moreover in ApcKO DNA is hypermethylated, and it is dependent on choline supply from diet.All these results together show the importance for β-catenin activated tumours to have a supply in choline, and so open a way not only in PET exploitation for having a precise diagnosis, but also in deciphering the importance of choline pathway, to possibly develop a targeted therapy.

Leung Ho-yin. / Thesis submitted in: July 2002. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2003. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 104-118). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / Acknowlegements --- p.i / Abstract (English) --- p.ii / Abstract (Chinese) --- p.iv / "Table of Contents," --- p.vi / List of Figures --- p.xi / List of Tables --- p.xii / Abbreviation --- p.xiii / Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter 1.1 . --- Cancer Incidences in Hong Kong --- p.2 / Chapter 1.2. --- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) --- p.2 / Chapter 1.3. --- "Etiological Risk Factors," --- p.7 / Chapter 1.3.1. --- Liver Cirrhosis / Chapter 1.3.2. --- Chronic Viral Hepatitis / Chapter 1.3.2.1. --- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) / Chapter 1.3.2.2. --- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) / Chapter 1.3.3. --- Dietary Aflatoxin B1 exposure / Chapter 1.3.4. --- Heavy Alcohol Consumption / Chapter 1.3.5. --- Hemochromatosis / Chapter 1.4. --- Genetic Aberration in HCC --- p.12 / Chapter 1.4.1. --- Chromosomal Gains / Chapter 1.4.2. --- Chromosome Losses / Chapter 1.5. --- Epigenetic Changes --- p.18 / Chapter 1.6. --- Aims of Thesis --- p.20 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.22 / Chapter 2.1. --- Materials --- p.23 / Chapter 2.1.1. --- Culture of Cell Lines / Chapter 2.1.2. --- Preparation of Normal Human Metaphase / Chapter 2.1.3. --- DNA Extraction from Cell Lines / Chapter 2.1.4. --- DNA Extraction from Tissues / Chapter 2.1.5. --- DNA Extraction from Blood / Chapter 2.1.6. --- Nick Translation / Chapter 2.1.7. --- Dot Blot / Chapter 2.1.8. --- Probe Preparation / Chapter 2.1.9. --- Fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies / Chapter 2.1.10. --- Fluorescence Microscopy and Image Analysis / Chapter 2.1.11. --- Primer Labeling / Chapter 2.1.12. --- Polymerase Chain Reaction / Chapter 2.1.13. --- Gel Preparation / Chapter 2.1.14. --- Gel Electrophoresis / Chapter 2.2. --- Sample --- p.28 / Chapter 2.2.1. --- Patients / Chapter 2.2.2. --- Cell Lines / Chapter 2.3. --- Comparative Genomic Hybridization --- p.30 / Chapter 2.3.1. --- Method / Chapter 2.3.1.1. --- Preparation of Normal Human Metaphase / Chapter 2.3.1.2. --- DNA Extraction / Chapter 2.3.1.3. --- Nick Translation / Chapter 2.3.1.4. --- Labeling Efficiency / Chapter 2.3.1.5. --- Probe Preparation / Chapter 2.3.1.6. --- Slide Preparation / Chapter 2.3.1.7. --- Hybridization / Chapter 2.3.1.8. --- Post Hybridization Wash / Chapter 2.3.1.9. --- Image Capturing and Analysis / Chapter 2.3.1.10. --- Control Experiment / Chapter 2.4. --- Microsatellite Analysis --- p.46 / Chapter 2.4.1. --- Method / Chapter 2.4.1.1. --- Fluorescent-Labeled Polymorphic Markers / Chapter 2.4.1.1.1. --- Polymerase Chain Reaction / Chapter 2.4.1.1.2. --- Gel Preparation / Chapter 2.4.1.1.3. --- Gel Electrophoresis / Chapter 2.4.1.1.4. --- Data Analysis / Chapter 2.4.1.2. --- Radioisotope-Labeled Polymorphic Markers / Chapter 2.4.1.2.1. --- Primer Labeling / Chapter 2.4.1.2.2. --- Polymerase Chain Reaction / Chapter 2.4.1.2.3. --- Gel Preparation / Chapter 2.4.1.2.4. --- Gel Electrophoresis / Chapter 2.4.1.2.5. --- Autoradiography and Data Analysis / Chapter 3. --- Chapter 3 Genetic Imbalances on Chromosome 1 --- p.55 / Chapter 3.1. --- Introduction --- p.56 / Chapter 3.2. --- Methods --- p.57 / Chapter 3.2.1. --- Patients and Cell Lines / Chapter 3.2.2. --- CGH / Chapter 3.2.3. --- MSA with Fluorescent-labeled Polymorphic Markers / Chapter 3.2.4. --- Refinement of lp36 loss / Chapter 3.2.5. --- Investigation of Homozygous Deletion in lp36 / Chapter 3.3. --- Results --- p.63 / Chapter 3.3.1. --- CGH / Chapter 3.3.2. --- MSA on Primary HCC Cases / Chapter 3.3.3. --- Refinement of lp36 loss / Chapter 3.3.4. --- Investigation of Homozygous Deletion in lp36 / Chapter 3.3.5. --- CGH vs MSA / Chapter 3.4. --- Discussion --- p.74 / Chapter 4. --- Chapter 4 Genetic Imbalances on Chromosome 4q --- p.78 / Chapter 4.1. --- Introduction --- p.79 / Chapter 4.2. --- Methods --- p.82 / Chapter 4.2.1. --- Patients and Cell Lines / Chapter 4.2.2. --- CGH / Chapter 4.2.3. --- MSA with Radioisotope-labeled Polymorphic Markers / Chapter 4.3. --- Results --- p.86 / Chapter 4.3.1. --- CGH / Chapter 4.3.2. --- MSA / Chapter 4.3.2.1. --- MSA on Primary HCC cases / Chapter 4.3.2.2. --- MSA on In-house developed HCC cell lines / Chapter 4.3.2.3. --- Combined MSA Results / Chapter 4.4. --- Discussion --- p.94 / Chapter 5. --- Chapter 5 Proposed Future Studies --- p.99 / Chapter 5.1. --- "Microarray Analysis," --- p.101 / Chapter 5.2. --- Functional Studies --- p.102 / Chapter 6. --- Bibliography --- p.104