Matrix rigidity regulates a switch between TGF-β1–induced apoptosis and epithelial–mesenchymal transition

Matrix rigidity regulates a switch between TGF-β1–induced cell functions in two epithelial cell lines. On compliant polyacrylamide gels, TGF-β1 induced apoptosis, whereas on rigid gels, cells underwent an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Compliant gels reduced PI3K/Akt activity, which was essential for cell survival and EMT on rigid gels

Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus recommendations on hepatocellular carcinoma

Introduction: The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in December 2008 to develop consensus recommendations. Methods: The working party consisted of expert hepatologist, hepatobiliary surgeon, radiologist, and oncologist from Asian-Pacific region, who were requested to make drafts prior to the consensus meeting held at Bali, Indonesia on 4 December 2008. The quality of existing evidence and strength of recommendations were ranked from 1 (highest) to 5 (lowest) and from A (strongest) to D (weakest), respectively, according to the Oxford system of evidence-based approach for developing the consensus statements. Results: Participants of the consensus meeting assessed the quality of cited studies and assigned grades to the recommendation statements. Finalized recommendations were presented at the fourth APASL single topic conference on viral-related HCC at Bali, Indonesia and approved by the participants of the conference. © 2010 Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver.link_to_OA_fulltex