Role of Extracellular Matrix in Progression of Oral Malignancies

Abstract

Treatment failure in head and neck cancers can be attributed to multiple factors that are difficult to predict. Additionally, the prognosis often remains uncertain. Extracellular matrix plays a vital role in spread and progression of tumors. During tumor progression, reorganization of collagen fibers occurs, which initially prevents the invasion of tumor cells. However, as the tumor advances, stromal changes facilitate the movement of tumor cells within the matrix, leading to metastasis. Solid tumors, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), consist of tumor islands and a modified extracellular matrix (ECM). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts and inflammatory cells. As a result, structural components of the ECM are modified and degraded. This degradation increases invasion and progression of the tumor occurs. Throughout tumor progression, the ECM undergoes numerous morphological and architectural alterations