Molecular pathogenesis of oral squamous carcinoma

Oral squamous carcinogenesis is a multistep process in which multiple genet ic events occur that alter the normal functions of oncogenes and tumour sup pressor genes. This can result in increased production of growth factors or numbers of cell surface receptors, enhanced intracellular messenger signal ling, and/or increased production of transcription factors. In combination with the loss of tumour suppressor activity, this leads to a cell phenotype capable of increased cell proliferation, with loss of cell cohesion, and t he ability to infiltrate local tissue and spread to distant sites. Recent a dvances in the understanding of the molecular control of these various path ways will allow more accurate diagnosis and assessment of prognosis, and mi ght lead the way for more novel approaches to treatment and prevention.