Resumen: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous tumor with multiple molecular and genetic alterations. The major etiological factors for HCC are hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, alcoholic liver disease (ALD), and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). A large body of observations demonstrates that HBV, HCV, ALD, and NASH induce hepatic oxidative stress, with increased oxidative DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and decreased activity of cellular antioxidant systems. These evidences are found both in patients and in rodent models. Here we review the mechanisms by which HCV and HBV infection, as well as NASH, promote oxidative stress. We also describe the experimental evidence supporting a mechanistic role for oxidative stress in HCC development, and the rationale for the use of antioxidants in HCC chemoprevention.
