"Omics" in oral cancer: New approaches for biomarker discovery.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: In this review paper, we explored the application of "omics" approaches in the study of oral cancer (OC). It will provide a better understanding of how "omics" approaches may lead to novel biomarker molecules or molecular signatures with potential value in clinical practice. A future direction of "omics"-driven research in OC is also discussed. METHODS: Studies on "omics"-based approaches [genomics/proteomics/transcriptomics/metabolomics] were investigated for differentiating oral squamous cell carcinoma,oral sub-mucous fibrosis, oral leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, oral erythroplakia from normal cases. Electronic databases viz., PubMed, Springer, and Google Scholar were searched. RESULTS: One eighty-one studies were included in this review. The review shows that the fields of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics-based marker identification have implemented advanced tools to screen early changes in DNA, RNA, protein, and metabolite expression in OC population. CONCLUSIONS: It may be concluded that despite advances in OC therapy, symptomatic presentation occurs at an advanced stage, where various curative treatment options become very limited. A molecular level study is essential for detecting an OC biomarker at an early stage. Modern "Omics" strategies can potentially make a major contribution to meet this need.