International Journal of Molecular and Cellular Medicine (IJMCM)

Oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC) is a major global health issue, ranking sixth in prevalence, particularly in Asia. The diagnosis often occurs late due to inadequate early screening, resulting in a dismal five-year survival rate of around 50%. This document provides a comprehensive analysis of drug-based treatments for oral cavity carcinoma, focusing on chemotherapy, immune modulation, and novel approaches like nanoparticle therapies. Despite advancements in these methods, drug resistance remains a significant obstacle that adversely affects patient outcomes. The research highlights the critical role of long ncRNAs in the progression and treatment of OSCC. These long ncRNAs, which are over 200 nucleotides long, play essential roles in gene regulation and tumor growth, including mechanisms of drug resistance. Some long ncRNAs may promote or inhibit tumor development and influence the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs like cisplatin. Additionally, the review explores how the tumor microenvironment and immune responses interact, suggesting that inflammation may accelerate the progression of oral cancer. By synthesizing insights from extensive literature, this review clarifies the complex relationship between long ncRNAs and OSCC treatment. The study aimed to improve treatment efficacy and increase survival rates for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma by identifying potential therapeutic targets. The findings underscore the importance of integrating molecular insights into treatment strategies to combat drug resistance and enhance patient outcomes in oral cancer therapy.