TGF-β SIGNALING IN HPV-POSITIVE HEAD AND NECK CANCER: FROM EARLY TUMOR SUPPRESSION TO METASTASIS AND RESISTANCE
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The TGF-β signalling pathway is an enigmatic player with a tumor suppressor effect in HPV-positive head and neck cancer during the initial stages of cancer, but has a pro-cancer effect during later stages. Specifically, HPV-positive oropharyngeal carcinomas are characterized by the suppression of TGF-β signalling due to the virus's changes in the cells. In the initial stage of cancer, TGF-β works pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative, while in the later stages, it is involved in immune checkpoint, metastasis, and chemoresistance. This duality presents major problems for therapeutic intervention as modulation of the tumor-promoting effects of TGF-β requires sparing its tumor- suppressing properties. However, recent studies have reported novel therapeutic approaches such as selective inhibitors, immune checkpoint blockade, and combined targeted therapy for HPV oncoproteins and the TGF-β pathway. These approaches present some promise for enhancing clinical results; however, more research is required to realize these benefits for the benefit of the patients. This review examines the complex role of TGF-β signalling in HPV-positive head and neck cancers and discusses its implications for future therapeutic development.
Institutions: Saveetha University, Chitkara University, Batterjee Medical College, Ajman University, GLA University, Graphic Era University, Uttaranchal University, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology Pharmacy Institute, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Lovely Professional University, Sunway University
Language: English
Topic: TGF-β signaling in diseases
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4411043780