Insight into the molecular pathogenesis of odontogenic lesions

Odontogenic tumors, derived from epithelial, ectomesenchymal, and/or mesenchymal elements of the tooth-forming apparatus, constitute a heterogeneous group of lesions, including hamartomas, benign and malignant neoplasms with metastatic capabilities.

This review provides a comprehensive overviewof the pathogenesis of odontogenic tumors and explains the associated molecular events in the context of hallmarks of cancer established by Hanahan D and Weinberg RA. Diagrammatic representations depicted in the article would facilitate easier understanding.

A better understanding of the pathogenesis of the lesions may assist in determining patient's prognosis and devising better targeted therapeutic treatment, thus, reducing the morbidity and mortalityof patients.