Treatment failure shortcomings, possible causes and upcoming phyto-optimism in oral cancer

Abstract

Oral cancer (mainly oral squamous cell carcinoma or OSCC) is a dangerous health problem and the sixth foremost cancer globally. Current oral cancer treatments include surgery, chemoradiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Despite recent progress, resistance to classical chemotherapeutic drugs, radiation therapy, targeted chemo-drug/monoclonal antibodies, and even the resistance to Immuno-Checkpoint Inhibitors remains hurdle for OSCC treatment and cause disease relapses. Many therapeutic agents induce drug resistance (DR), which varies among oral cancer patients. The DR can be intrinsic or acquired; knowing the DR mechanisms is essential. The constantly evolving OSCC cells with effective energy management, though, get adapted to drug pressure but respond to many plant-based extracts and purified phytochemicals. Though DR appears to be a never-ending process, improvising plant-based phytochemical/s with different cocktail formulations, nano-based modifications, or modern technology has tremendous potential. A better understanding of DR and chemoprevention can show the path to future personalized therapy approaches.