(An) Investigation on the Potential of Mortalin as a Therapeutic Target for Oral Cancer

Abstract

Oral cancer is a significant global health burden, affecting various regions of the oral cavity, including the gums, lips, tongue, and palate. According to GLOBOCAN 2020, approximately 400,000 new cases and 170,000 deaths were reported annually worldwide. This malignancy is particularly prevalent in South and Southeast Asia, with a high incidence in countries such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. In India, oral cancer accounts for nearly one-fourth of the total cancer burden, with higher prevalence among males. The North-Eastern region has emerged as a hotspot for this cancer, primarily due to high tobacco consumption. Despite advancements in therapeutic modalities, challenges such as late-stage diagnosis, high recurrence rates, and poor prognosis persist among patients, highlighting the urgent need for the development of novel therapeutic target.