Progress and perspectives in chemoprevention of head and neck cancer

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Therapy Testing in a Spheroid-based 3D Cell Culture Model for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
06:11

Therapy Testing in a Spheroid-based 3D Cell Culture Model for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Published on: April 20, 2018

Lori J Wirth1, Robert I Haddad, Marshall R Posner

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA. Lori_Wirth@dfci.harvard.edu

Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy
|June 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Chemoprevention is a viable strategy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Research is advancing with new agents and innovative methods, though challenges in validating biomarkers and identifying safe agents persist.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Prevention

Background:

  • Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) presents an ideal model for chemoprevention research.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms of HNSCC has paved the way for developing targeted preventive strategies.
  • Previous studies, including landmark trials with 13-cis retinoic acid, have confirmed the feasibility of HNSCC chemoprevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the progress and challenges in chemoprevention for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
  • To highlight the development of novel chemopreventive agents targeting specific molecular pathways in carcinogenesis.
  • To discuss innovative research approaches, such as the use of intermediate biomarker endpoints, for selecting promising agents.

Main Methods:

  • Review of landmark clinical trials and molecular studies related to HNSCC chemoprevention.
  • Identification and discussion of emerging chemopreventive agents targeting key molecular abnormalities.
  • Exploration of innovative research methodologies, including biomarker-based approaches.

Main Results:

  • Chemoprevention of HNSCC is achievable, as demonstrated by successful trials.
  • New agents targeting specific molecular events in carcinogenesis have been identified.
  • Biomarker intermediate endpoints offer a promising approach for agent selection in definitive trials.

Conclusions:

  • Despite progress, significant barriers remain in HNSCC chemoprevention.
  • Validation of surrogate endpoint biomarkers is crucial for advancing the field.
  • The identification of safe, well-tolerated agents capable of delaying carcinogenesis is essential for future success.

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