Basal metabolic rate shapes the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma

The high BMR mouse line developed hepatocellular carcinoma much faster and with a higher progression rate, accompanied by a considerable increase in liver size and hepatocyte enlargement, as compared to the low BMR mouse line. The HBMR mice also manifested an increased expression of metabolism- and cell size-related genes (mTOR, PI3K, c-myc, but not IGF-1), with a simultaneous decrease in the activity of tumor suppressors (p-53, APC) at the beginning of cancerogenic processes, promoting further neoplasm expansion. CONCLUSION: Presented results suggest that genetically determined high BMR may additionally burden liver cells via changes in the action of specific genes, leading to higher tumorigenesis.