Molecular Mechanisms of Bone Invasion by Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Invasion of bone is a common characteristic of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), which adversely affects on functionality and survival of patients. Recent studies suggst that osteoclasts, rather than OSCC cells, facilitate the entry of the tumour into bone and result in the progression of cancer within bone. Generation of osteoclasts is due to either an indirect effect involving stimulation of osteoblasts, or a direct effect initiated by OSCC cells. This study, consisting of three parts, aims to investigate the signalling pathways involved in the crosstalk between OSCC cells, osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Using research models both in vitro and in vivo, this study explores molecules with the potential to inhibit such bone invasion for the design of future biotherapies.