Fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling in head and neck tumors: molecular pathogenesis and potential therapeutic

Luqin Tang1, Hanqi Xia1, Zhu Zheng1

  • 1Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.

Insights

Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) signaling is crucial for cell functions but drives head and neck tumors when abnormal. This review explores FGFR

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Signaling Pathways

Background:

  • Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) signaling is vital for normal cellular processes like proliferation and angiogenesis.
  • Aberrant FGFR activation, through genetic alterations or overexpression, significantly contributes to head and neck tumor development and progression.
  • Current targeted therapies using small-molecule FGFR inhibitors show promise but face challenges including tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the molecular mechanisms, clinicopathological correlations, and targeted therapy status of the FGFR signaling pathway in various head and neck cancers.
  • To establish a framework connecting genetic alterations, mechanistic regulation, and clinical applications of FGFR signaling in head and neck tumors.
  • To provide a theoretical basis for advancing precision therapy in head and neck oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review of studies on FGFR signaling in head and neck cancers.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms, including gene amplification, mutation, fusion, and overexpression.
  • Evaluation of clinicopathological correlations and current targeted therapy approaches.

Main Results:

  • FGFR signaling dysregulation is a key driver in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, salivary gland carcinoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma, thyroid carcinoma, laryngeal carcinoma, and ameloblastoma.
  • Understanding the molecular landscape of FGFR alterations is essential for effective targeted treatment.
  • Challenges in precision therapy include molecular heterogeneity and acquired resistance to inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted inhibition of FGFR signaling holds potential for treating specific head and neck tumors.
  • A comprehensive understanding of FGFR alterations and their clinical implications is crucial for developing effective precision therapies.
  • Further research is needed to overcome resistance mechanisms and optimize FGFR-targeted treatments for head and neck cancers.

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