Unbalancing Polycomb group proteins activities during liver homeostasis and tumour formation

Increasing evidence demonstrated that mutations altering the activity of chromatin-modifying complexes significantly contribute to liver tumour formation and progression. Inactivating mutations of members of the polycomb complexes have been found in a subset of aggressive HCCs, mainly affecting women, and in more than 20% of CCA. To clarify the role of these chromatin-associated complexes in liver homeostasis, we used a comprehensive approach taking advantage of advanced genomics approaches, histological and histochemical techniques and novel in vivo models. Our data suggest that unbalancing Polycomb activities compromises liver homeostasis, favouring tumour formation.