Molecular markers associated with development and progression of potentially premalignant oral epithelial lesions: current knowledge and future implications

Publication date: Available online 4 April 2018
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Nikolaos G. Nikitakis, Monica Pentenero, Maria Georgaki, Catherine F. Poh, Douglas E. Peterson, Paul Edwards, Mark Lingen, John J. Sauk
Identification and management of potentially premalignant oral epithelial lesions (PPOELs) at highest risk of malignant transformation (MT) holds great promise for successful secondary prevention of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), potentially reducing oral cancer morbidity and mortality. However, to date, neither clinical nor histopathologic validated risk predictors have been identified that can reliably predict which PPOELs will definitively progress to malignancy. In addition, the management of PPOELs remains a major challenge. Arguably, progress in the prevention and treatment of oral premalignancy and cancer will require improved understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms, facilitating the discovery of diagnostic, prognostic and predictive markers, as well as the identification of novel targeted therapeutics.This review provides a synopsis of the molecular biomarkers that have been studied in PPOELs and have been correlated with the presence and grade of dysplasia and/or their propensity to undergo MT to OSCC. The emphasis is on highlighting new emerging research fields, particularly epigenetic events, including methylation and miRNA regulation. Several promising biomarkers are highlighted. Current limitations and challenges are discussed. Recommendations for future focused research areas, in order to validate and promote clinically useful applications, are offered.



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