Early Screening of Oral Premalignant and Malignant Lesions Using Salivary Biomarkers

Abstract

Background and Aim: Early identification of oral cancer may enhance treatment results dramatically. Non-invasive screening techniques that use salivary biomarkers have potential, although more validation is necessary. The primary objective of this research was to ascertain and assess microRNAs and interleukins as potential biomarkers that might be used for the prompt identification of oral pre malignant lesions and oral cancer.

Material and methods: A case-control study was undertaken, including saliva samples collected from 12 patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), 10 patients diagnosd with leukoplakia, as well as a reference group of 20 healthy individuals. Demographic and clinical information was gathered. The measurement of microRNA-31 expression was performed using qRT-PCR. The IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations were measured using ELISA. The levels of the biomarkers under investigation were assessed in all groups, and all the data was provided as mean values and standard deviation.

Results: The findings of this study indicate that biomarkers interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-6, and miR-31exhibited a statistically significant increase in oral cancer patients when compared to Leukoplakia and control group.

Conclusion: In conclusion, it is evident that salivary biomarkers IL-8, IL-6, and miR-31 exhibit promising characteristics as innovative early detection indicators for oral cancer and for monitoring oral premalignant lesions.  Further validation is necessary for non-invasive screening that utilizes these biomarkers; however, it shows potential for enhancing rates of early detection.