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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
Therapy Testing in a Spheroid-based 3D Cell Culture Model for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 20, 2018
The current state of head and neck cancer gene therapy
Sufi Mary Thomas1, Jennifer Rubin Grandis
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
Abstract:
The incidence of head and neck cancer continues to increase worldwide, with tobacco exposure and human papillomavirus type 16 infections being the major etiological factors. Current therapeutic options are ineffective in approximately half of the individuals afflicted with this malignancy. Developments in the identification of molecules that sustain head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) growth and survival have made molecular targeting by gene therapy approaches a feasible therapeutic strategy. Although gene therapy was originally designed to correct single gene defects, it has now evolved to encompass all forms of therapeutic interventions involving engineered cells and nucleic acids that modify the overall pattern of gene expression within target tissues. Several preclinical studies and clinical trials have tested the efficacy of targeting specific molecules in patients with HNSCC, using genetic therapy approaches. This review discusses promising preclinical and clinical approaches and new directions for HNSCC gene therapy.
Insights
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is rising globally. Gene therapy offers a promising strategy by targeting molecules that drive HNSCC growth and survival, with ongoing research exploring new directions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Gene Therapy
Background:
- Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) incidence is increasing globally.
- Major etiological factors include tobacco exposure and human papillomavirus type 16 infections.
- Current therapies are ineffective for about half of HNSCC patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review promising preclinical and clinical gene therapy approaches for HNSCC.
- To discuss new directions in molecular targeting for HNSCC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies and clinical trials on HNSCC gene therapy.
- Analysis of molecular targeting strategies for HNSCC growth and survival.
Main Results:
- Identification of key molecules sustaining HNSCC growth and survival.
- Gene therapy has evolved beyond single gene defects to encompass broader genetic interventions.
- Several studies have tested the efficacy of targeting specific molecules in HNSCC patients.
Conclusions:
- Molecular targeting via gene therapy is a feasible strategy for HNSCC.
- Gene therapy approaches show promise for improving treatment outcomes in HNSCC.
- Further research into novel gene therapy strategies is warranted for HNSCC.
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