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Chemoprevention of head and neck cancer
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, USA.
Abstract:
Increasing emphasis has been placed on chemoprevention as understanding of the genetic and molecular events of carcinogenesis has evolved. More than 1000 compounds that inhibit cancer development in vitro or in animal models have been identified, and active research is under way to determine which of these agents will be both effective and nontoxic in human beings. Currently, 13-cis-retinoic acid is the most studied chemopreventive agent against head and neck cancers. Unfortunately, this vitamin A derivative has significant clinical toxicity, which limits its utility in a practice setting. The efficacy of the retinoids, however, has stimulated efforts to find other chemopreventive compounds that are both effective and nontoxic. This review discusses head and neck premalignancy, chemoprevention strategies, retinoids, and several other classes of chemopreventive agents with potential efficacy against head and neck premalignancy.
Insights
Chemoprevention research identifies over 1000 cancer-inhibiting compounds. This review explores agents for head and neck cancers, focusing on effective, non-toxic alternatives to 13-cis-retinoic acid.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Prevention
Background:
- Carcinogenesis research has increased focus on chemoprevention.
- Over 1000 compounds show in vitro or animal model cancer inhibition.
- 13-cis-retinoic acid is a studied agent for head and neck cancers but has toxicity issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review head and neck premalignancy.
- To discuss chemoprevention strategies.
- To explore retinoids and other chemopreventive agents for head and neck cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of chemopreventive agents.
- Analysis of compounds targeting head and neck premalignancy.
- Evaluation of efficacy and toxicity profiles.
Main Results:
- Numerous compounds inhibit cancer development in preclinical models.
- 13-cis-retinoic acid shows efficacy but significant toxicity.
- Research is ongoing to find safer and effective chemopreventive agents.
Conclusions:
- Effective and non-toxic chemopreventive agents are needed for head and neck cancers.
- Retinoids' efficacy has spurred the search for alternative compounds.
- Further research into various chemopreventive classes is warranted.