Systematic literature review and bioinformatic analysis of possible biomarkers associated with HNSCC

Background Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is recognized for its heterogeneous nature, leading to varied responses to existing therapeutic regimens. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular characteristics identified thus far in HNSCC and, specifically, to explore target molecules for personalized therapies.

Methods Pubmed and the Pharos database serve as resources for our systematic review. The systematic review incorporates literature published between 2000 and 2023. By amalgamating data from various sources, a comprehensive picture of the current scientific landscape is crafted.

Results Significant genetic alterations are observed in key genes such as CDKN2A, TP53, CCND1 and others, forming the focus of ongoing research. It exists a variation of markers and their patient-specific response to therapy. Using Pharos, potential therapeutics targeting these markers were identified. For example tazemetostat, ingenol, alpelisib, duvelisib and copanlisib are already in preclinical or even clinical testing for HNSCC treatment.

Conclusion Patients with HNSCC exhibit significant molecular diversity and therapeutic response. The Pharos database can serve as a valuable tool to identify potential therapeutics for the targeted treatment. A promising perspective for rapidly developing new therapeutic options lies in the repurposing of drugs. This approach allows not only the consideration of existing drugs to be reused for the targeted treatment of HNSCC but also the discovery of novel putative drug candidates. The integration of these findings aims not only to strengthen the foundations of personalized medicine in the treatment of HNSCC but also to advance the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Publication History

Article published online:
19 April 2024