Advances in Small Molecular Agents against Oral Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Oral cancer presents a significant global health challenge with high mortality rates.
• Current treatments, primarily surgery, are limited in efficacy for advanced or metastatic oral cancer.
• Targeting molecular mechanisms is crucial for preventing and treating distant metastases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review molecular agents used in oral cancer treatment over the past decade.
• To categorize these agents based on their chemical structure and natural sources.
• To elucidate their mechanisms of action and curative effects on oral cancer.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review focusing on studies published in the last 10 years.
• Classification of identified molecular agents into predefined categories (phenols, isothiocyanates, etc.).
• Analysis of documented mechanisms, including effects on cell signaling, proliferation, apoptosis, and migration.

Main Results:

• Identified and classified various molecular agents including phenols, isothiocyanates, anthraquinones, statins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids.
• Detailed the sources of these natural compounds.
• Summarized their diverse mechanisms of action on oral cancer cells, affecting key biological processes.

Conclusions:

• Molecular agents demonstrate significant potential in managing oral cancer, particularly in preventing and treating metastases.
• Understanding the mechanisms of these agents provides a foundation for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
• This review serves as a valuable reference for future research in oral cancer molecular therapy.