Joining the growing interest for World Head and Neck Cancer Day (occuring on July 27th), we turn our attention to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)—the most common malignancy within the head and neck region. Highlighting HMGB1 as a key molecular player in OSCC research.
A recent study underscores that HMGB1 is significantly overexpressed in OSCC tissues and cell lines and is strongly associated with metastasis and poor prognosis. Beyond its well-known role as a damage-associated molecular pattern, HMGB1 actively modulates the tumor microenvironment, particularly through its impact on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs).
HMGB1 drives M1-like polarization of TAMs, activating the NF-κB/IL-6 signaling axis, which in turn promotes OSCC cell migration and invasion. These findings highlight HMGB1’s dual role in promoting tumor aggressiveness and reshaping immune cell behavior to favor metastasis.
Targeting HMGB1 or its downstream pathways—such as NF-κB/IL-6—may offer promising new therapeutic strategies for OSCC patients facing aggressive disease. Blocking HMGB1 release, interfering with its receptor-mediated signaling, or modulating its effect on TAMs may offer new strategies to mitigate metastasis and improve survival outcomes.
At HMGBiotech, we provide comprehensive information to facilitate informed decision-making for researches with HMGB1.
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Read the full article about the study
