Discovery of Therapeutic Target Genes in Oral and Craniofacial Cancers: From Molecular Signatures to Precision Dentistry

Dear Colleagues,

Oral and craniofacial malignancies, particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), remain a major clinical challenge due to late diagnosis, high recurrence rates and treatment-related functional and aesthetic morbidity. Advances in genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics and single-cell technologies are rapidly expanding our ability to identify cancer therapeutic target genes and actionable molecular pathways with direct relevance to dental and oral healthcare. At the same time, the oral cavity represents a unique biological ecosystem where chronic inflammation, microbiome dysbiosis, potentially malignant disorders and biomaterial interactions may influence carcinogenesis and therapeutic response.

This Special Issue in Biomolecules aims to highlight cutting-edge research focused on discovering and validating therapeutic target genes in oral and head-and-neck cancers, with specific emphasis on translational implications for dentistry. We welcome original studies and high-quality reviews addressing molecular targets involved in tumor initiation, invasion, perineural spread, lymphatic metastasis, angiogenesis, immune evasion and therapy resistance. Submissions exploring biomarkers for early detection and risk stratification in oral, potentially malignant disorders (e.g., leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus with dysplastic change); liquid biopsy approaches (saliva, gingival crevicular fluid, serum) and multi-omics integration are strongly encouraged. We also invite contributions on gene–microbiome interactions, HPV-related pathways, AI-assisted target discovery and functional validation using organoids, 3D models and CRISPR-based screening.

By bridging molecular target discovery with clinical dental relevance—including screening strategies, minimally invasive diagnostics, precision-guided surgery and personalized adjuvant therapy—this Special Issue aims to accelerate the translation of biomolecular findings into improved outcomes and quality of life for patients affected by oral cancer.

Dr. Valentina Belli
Guest Editor

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