Key signalling pathways in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: mechanisms and therapeutic targets.

Objectives: This review examines the signalling pathways involved in head and neck cancer cell survival and apoptosis.

Methods: Articles were sourced from Scopus using the following keywords: oral cavity cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, signalling pathways, target therapy. No publication date limits were set, and the language of publication was restricted to English.

Key findings: Head and neck cancers are the sixth most common cancer worldwide (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma [HNSCC]). The most common subtype is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), with oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC and OPSCC, respectively) being significant subcategories. Multiple signalling pathways play a critical role in oncogenesis and the development of various head and neck malignancies. Theoretically, targeting inhibitors for these pathways could potentially halt tumour growth and restore affected cells. This review highlights key oncogenic cascades, including epidermal growth factor receptor/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT/mTOR, mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Wnt/β-catenin, NOTCH, the p53 gene, and vascular endothelial growth factor, which contribute to tumour progression, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. A comprehensive understanding of these molecular mechanisms is essential to inform targeted therapies and develop personalized treatment strategies for HNSCC.

Conclusions: Researchers have studied several signalling pathways in HNSCC due to their known ability to influence apoptosis, survival, angiogenesis, and other biological processes.