BHU Develops Molecular Classification for Oral Cancer Therapy

Researchers at Banaras Hindu University have achieved a major scientific breakthrough by developing the world’s first systematic molecular classification of oral cancer. The landmark study, published on December 25 in the reputed journal “Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research”, is expected to transform oral cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly in India and Southeast Asia where disease burden is high.

Landmark Study from Banaras Hindu University

The research was led by the Department of Surgical Oncology at Banaras Hindu University, with support from the Health Technology Assessment in India (HTAIn) BHU team and the DHR-ICMR Advanced Molecular Oncology Diagnostic Services (DIAMOnDS) programme. The team analysed genomic data and evidence from over 8,000 scientific studies to move beyond conventional, morphology-based diagnosis of oral cancer.

Five Molecular Pathways Identified

The study identifies five distinct biological subtypes of oral cancer: Cell-Cycle Dysregulation (CCD), Immune-Mediated (IM), Xenobiotic Metabolism-Associated (XMA), Inflammatory Pathway Activation (IPA), and Viral Protein Activation (VPA). Each subtype is linked to specific genes and molecular mechanisms. This classification enables oncologists to choose targeted therapies such as HER2 inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, or tailored immunotherapies instead of relying on uniform chemotherapy regimens.

India-Specific Relevance and Precision Medicine

Unlike Western models, the proposed framework gives special importance to pathways driven by tobacco and betel quid consumption, which are major risk factors in India. It also establishes that human papillomavirus plays a limited role in most Indian oral cancer cases, helping avoid inappropriate treatment strategies borrowed from Western protocols. This approach supports evidence-based, patient-specific decision-making in oncology.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Oral cancer has high incidence in India due to tobacco and betel quid use.
• The study proposes the world’s first molecular classification of oral cancer.
• Five molecular subtypes have been identified to guide targeted therapy.
• The research emphasises precision medicine over conventional chemotherapy.

Clinical Impact and Implementation Challenges

According to the researchers, the classification supports a “Right Drug for the Right Patient” approach, reducing trial-and-error treatments and financial burden on families. While the model is expected to be adopted by referral laboratories and oncology centres, challenges remain related to testing costs, drug availability, and the need for robust clinical trials before nationwide implementation.