Banaras Hindu University (BHU) researchers unveil first molecular classification of oral cancer for precision therapy

Key facts

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) researchers analysed over 8,000 scientific articles and genomic data to create the world’s first systematic molecular classification of oral cancer.
• The study identifies five distinct biological groups: Cell-Cycle Dysregulation (CCD), Immune-Mediated (IM), Xenobiotic Metabolism-Associated (XMA), Inflammatory Pathway Activation (IPA), and Viral Protein Activation (VPA).
• Each group is directly linked to specific actionable genes and pathways, guiding clinicians to select targeted therapies such as HER2 inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, or specific immunotherapies.
• Unlike Western classifications, this model emphasises pathways influenced by tobacco and betel quid use (XMA and IPA), making it highly relevant for the Indian population.
• The classification clarifies that HPV is a minor driver in most Indian oral cancers, preventing the misapplication of Western treatment protocols.