Understanding Virus-related Oncogenesis in Head and Neck Cancers: From Epidemiology to Innovative Therapies

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) form a diverse group of malignant tumors originating in the upper aerodigestive tract, ranking among the most commonly diagnosed cancers globally. Considerable research emphasizes the involvement of oncogenic viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and additional viral factors in the pathogenic progression of a subset of HNCs. These viruses facilitate cancer development through viral proteins that hijack cellular processes, immune system evasion, and cell transformation strategies. Viral prevalence is influenced by geographical location, demographics, and exposure to risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol. Furthermore, the potential synergistic effects of co-infections with other viruses, including human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), are acknowledged but require further investigation. Addressing the virological, epidemiological, molecular, and immunological aspects of virus-associated HNCs is crucial for advancing preventive measures, early detection, and improving patient outcomes.This Research Topic aims to consolidate and expand current understanding regarding oncogenic viruses, such as HPV and EBV, and their roles in the initiation and evolution of HNCs. We seek studies that investigate the prevalence, geographical distribution, and co-infection patterns of these viruses, along with their molecular and immunological implications in cancer development. Additionally, the Research Topic endeavors to fill critical gaps in knowledge surrounding viral co-infections, host-pathogen interactions, and tumor immunobiology. Contributions elucidating how viruses drive malignancy, alongside evaluations of how viral status affects prognosis and therapeutic responses, are particularly welcome. The Research Topic emphasizes the importance of virus-targeted preventive strategies, such as vaccination and early detection, and explores new or refined treatment approaches specifically for virus-positive tumors.To gather further insights into the complex landscape of virus-related HNCs, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Epidemiology and geographic distribution of oncogenic viruses in HNCs.- Patterns and effects of viral co-infections in tumor development.- Molecular and immunological mechanisms of virus-induced tumorigenesis.- Biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and viral characterization in HNCs.- Impact of viral status on therapeutic response and clinical outcomes.- Advances in prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines for virus-associated HNCs.- Virus-targeted immunotherapies and novel combination treatments.- Screening strategies and public health interventions for prevention.- Translational models for studying virus-related HNCs.- Host genetic and epigenetic factors, including dysregulation of developmental genes involved in virus-related carcinogenesis.- Bioinformatic and genomic analyses of viral integration and host response.Please note: manuscripts consisting solely of bioinformatics or computational analysis of public genomic or transcriptomic databases, which are not accompanied by validation (independent cohort or biological validation in vitro or in vivo), are out of scope for this section and will not be accepted as part of this Research Topic.Please note the following conflict of interest disclosures for Dr. Ivan Martinez:- Dr. Martinez is affiliated with the private company Osprey BioScience, LLC as a Scientific Advisor.Dr. Cristina Rodriguez-Padilla and Dr. Jose Manuel Vazquez-Guillen declared no conflict of interest. Topic editors: Ivan Martinez, Cristina Rodriguez-Padilla Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/72615/understanding-virus-related-oncogenesis-in-head-and-neck-cancers-from-epidemiology-to-innovative-therapies