passages.id: split_4_test_1853_passage
passages.type: progene_text
passages.text: In this study , using in situ hybridization we demonstrated that neoplastic transformation of the biliary epithelium is accompained by alterations in mucin gene expression , the altered mucin gene expression in dysplastic cells of stone - containing intrahepatic bile ducts may reflect a higher potential for malignant transformation in these cells , and it could be a precursor of cholangiocarcinoma in the presence of hepatolithiasis .