BHU Finds Novel Indian Genomic Markers for Oral Cancer

Researchers at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have successfully identified population-specific oral cancer genomic markers. This discovery addresses oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), which remains the deadliest oral malignancy in India. Specifically, the study focuses on communities in eastern Uttar Pradesh with high tobacco consumption rates. Consequently, these findings could pave the way for earlier diagnosis and personalized screening in high-burden regions.

Identifying Oral Cancer Genomic Markers in India

Existing global databases do not adequately represent the genetic diversity of North Indian communities. Therefore, the scientific team analyzed DNA samples from ninety-eight individuals in the Purvanchal region. Additionally, they performed mitochondrial DNA profiling alongside exome sequencing. Through this dual genomic approach, researchers discovered three previously unreported genes linked to OSCC. Furthermore, this genetic architecture reveals a complex interaction between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors, a topic further explored in our Postgraduate Diploma In Genomic Medicine And Health.

Role of Mitochondrial Polymorphism in Cancer Risk

The study highlighted the protective role of the 16223C polymorphism in the mitochondrial genome. Notably, this polymorphism occurred significantly less frequently in patients diagnosed with oral cancer. Actually, patients lacking this variant experienced an 8.1-fold higher risk of developing OSCC. Moreover, patients belonging to Western Eurasian haplogroups demonstrated a much higher risk. Conversely, individuals with South Asian haplogroups, particularly M5a, showed a protective trend.

Addressing the High Burden in Eastern Uttar Pradesh

Eastern Uttar Pradesh currently records some of the highest oral cancer rates in India. Smokeless tobacco products like gutkha and khaini primarily drive this high burden. Unfortunately, the five-year survival rate for patients ranges only between 20% and 45%. This low survival rate occurs because most patients seek medical care at advanced stages. However, these newly identified genomic tools can aid clinicians in performing earlier risk assessments, a vital skill for those pursuing a Certification Course In Clinical Oncology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the clinical significance of the 16223C polymorphism?

The 16223C polymorphism in the mitochondrial genome appears to have a protective effect. Its absence is linked to an 8.1-fold higher risk of developing oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Q2: Why is eastern Uttar Pradesh a high-burden region for oral cancer?

Eastern Uttar Pradesh has one of India’s highest rates of oral cancer due to heavy consumption of smokeless tobacco products. These products include gutkha, khaini, zarda, and pan masala.

Q3: How many novel genes were discovered in this BHU study?

The researchers identified three novel genes that were previously undocumented in major global cancer databases, bringing the total number of genes associated with this condition to nine. For those interested in advanced research, specialized Oncology Speciality Courses provide further insight into molecular cancer markers.

References

1. BHU study finds population-specific genomic markers for oral cancer – ETHealthworld
2. BHU study finds population-specific genomic markers for oral cancer – The Times of India
3. BHU Develops Molecular Classification for Oral Cancer Therapy – GKToday

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