Developments and future prospects of personalized medicine in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma diagnoses and treatments

Cancer Rep (Hoboken). 2024 Mar;7(3):e2045. doi: 10.1002/cnr2.2045.

Abstract

Background: Precision healthcare has entered a new era because of the developments in personalized medicine, especially in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This paper explores the dynamic landscape of personalized medicine as applied to HNSCC, encompassing both current developments and future prospects.

Recent findings: The integration of personalized medicine strategies into HNSCC diagnosis is driven by the utilization of genetic data and biomarkers. Epigenetic biomarkers, which reflect modifications to DNA that can influence gene expression, have emerged as valuable indicators for early detection and risk assessment. Treatment approaches within the personalized medicine framework are equally promising. Immunotherapy, gene silencing, and editing techniques, including RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9, offer innovative means to modulate gene expression and correct genetic aberrations driving HNSCC. The integration of stem cell research with personalized medicine presents opportunities for tailored regenerative approaches. The synergy between personalized medicine and technological advancements is exemplified by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications. These tools empower clinicians to analyze vast datasets, predict patient responses, and optimize treatment strategies with unprecedented accuracy.

Conclusion: The developments and prospects of personalized medicine in HNSCC diagnosis and treatment offer a transformative approach to managing this complex malignancy. By harnessing genetic insights, biomarkers, immunotherapy, gene editing, stem cell therapies, and advanced technologies like AI and ML, personalized medicine holds the key to enhancing patient outcomes and ushering in a new era of precision oncology.

Keywords: artificial intelligence; biomarker; genetic data; head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; machine learning; personalized medicine; targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Biomarkers
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Precision Medicine*
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck / diagnosis
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck / genetics
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck / therapy

Substances

  • Biomarkers