Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 30, 2025

Retroductal Submandibular Gland Instillation and Localized Fractionated Irradiation in a Rat Model of Salivary Hypofunction
Published on: April 24, 2016
[Salivary gland cancer: new therapeutic approaches]
Ruth Gabriela Herrera Gomez1, Nuria Mederos1, Petr Szturz1
1Service d'oncologie médicale, Département d'oncologie, Centre hospitalier universitaire vaudois, 1011 Lausanne.
Abstract:
Salivary gland carcinomas are rare, characterized by a diversity of histological subtypes associated with variable clinical behavior and prognosis with usually a poor response to chemotherapy. In this context, molecular alterations have been identified and represent potential therapeutic targets: overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and androgen receptors in salivary duct cancer, NOTCH mutations in adenoid cystic carcinoma, NTRK gene fusion in secretory carcinoma. Screening for these molecular alterations is mandatory in all patients with recurrent or metastatic salivary gland cancer as it may allow an individualized treatment.
Insights
Molecular alterations in rare salivary gland cancers, like HER2 and NOTCH mutations, offer new therapeutic targets. Screening for these biomarkers is crucial for personalized treatment in advanced disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Pathology
- Genetics
Context:
- Salivary gland carcinomas are rare tumors with diverse subtypes and poor chemotherapy response.
- Histological variations influence clinical behavior and patient prognosis.
- Limited treatment options exist for recurrent or metastatic salivary gland cancers.
Purpose:
- To highlight key molecular alterations in salivary gland carcinomas.
- To emphasize the role of these alterations as potential therapeutic targets.
- To advocate for mandatory molecular screening in advanced disease.
Summary:
- Identified molecular targets include human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and androgen receptors in salivary duct cancer.
- NOTCH mutations are observed in adenoid cystic carcinoma.
- NTRK gene fusions are found in secretory carcinoma, representing actionable targets.
Impact:
- Molecular screening enables individualized treatment strategies for patients.
- Targeted therapies based on identified biomarkers can improve outcomes.
- This approach shifts towards precision medicine in salivary gland cancer management.
Related Concept Videos
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Tumor Immunotherapy
Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...
Treatment Resistant Cancers

