The Mechanistic and Clinical Significance of Low - Density Lipoprotein in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This review systematically examines the mechanistic roles and clinical implications of LDL in HNSCC. The structural characteristics, biosynthesis, metabolic pathways of LDL, and its interplay with cholesterol homeostasis constitute the foundation for its involvement in HNSCC progression. Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), LDL modulates tumor progression through regulation of inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, while critically influencing key biological behaviors of HNSCC cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration. The expression levels of LDL and its associated factors demonstrate significant correlations with HNSCC patient prognosis, highlighting their potential utility as biomarkers for outcome prediction. Furthermore, LDL-related signaling pathways exhibit considerable therapeutic potential, though challenges such as adverse effects and inter-individual heterogeneity must be addressed when targeting LDL for treatment. Future investigations should prioritize elucidating the complex LDL-HNSCC interplay, leveraging advanced biotechnological approaches to uncover novel mechanisms, thereby establishing a robust theoretical foundation for early prevention and personalized therapeutic strategies in HNSCC.