The role of integrins αv in the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

The initiation of carcinoma progression is attributed to significant disorders in the synthesis of macromolecules that affect physiological processes in the epithelial cells of oral mucosa. It is known that the integrin family receptors are crucial for regenerative and reparative functions of the normal epithelium. In addition to their well-established physiological role, some types of integrins are the major determinants of malignant transformations. In particular, the results of recent studies in molecular oncology reveal the importance of αv integrins in the pathogenesis of carcinomas, including oral squamous cell carcinoma. This review aims to analyse the significance of αv integrins in the key processes of malignant growth and metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma. The prospects of using αv integrins as prognostic molecular markers and targets for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic methods in the management of oral cancer are discussed.