Zeitschrift für molekulare Biomarker und Diagnose

SOCS1: Shedding Light on HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancers

Abstract

Trine Weist*

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection has emerged as a significant risk factor for the development of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas (HNSCC). Identifying reliable biomarkers that can accurately predict HPV infection and assess prognosis is crucial for effective management of these cancers. This study focuses on the role of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1 (SOCS1) as a promising biomarker in HPV-associated HNSCC. SOCS1 is a key regulator of various cellular processes, including immune response, inflammation, and cell proliferation. Recent research has highlighted its potential involvement in HPV infection and subsequent carcinogenesis in the head and neck region. Aberrant SOCS1 expression has been observed in HPV-positive HNSCC samples, suggesting its possible role as a diagnostic and prognostic marker. This comprehensive analysis explores the association between SOCS1 expression levels, HPV infection, and clinical outcomes in HNSCC patients. Multiple studies have demonstrated a significant correlation between reduced SOCS1 expression and HPV positivity in tumor tissues. Moreover, low SOCS1 levels have been linked to unfavorable clinicopathological characteristics, such as advanced tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and reduced overall survival.