Fig. 4

Potential source of adipocytic cells in primary hepatic liposarcoma. Hepatic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), circulating MSCs, and hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are potential origins. Hepatic MSCs serve as potential cells of origin for primary hepatic liposarcoma due to their multipotency. Stimulation or damage to the liver can trigger circulating MSC migration, and abnormal adipocytic differentiation may form hepatic liposarcoma. HPCs result from hepatocytes that dedifferentiate and undergo epithelial–mesenchymal transition to mesenchymal-like stem cells, which, in turn, form the basis of liposarcoma development