Therapeutic Targets in Biofilm-Mediated Oral Cancer: Innovations and Challenges

Oral cancer remains a significant global health burden, with increasing evidence pointing to the critical role of biofilms in tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. Biofilm-mediated mechanisms not only create a pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive microenvironment but also promote the emergence of cancer stem cells, enhancing tumor aggressiveness. This review comprehensively explores the dynamics of biofilms in oral cancer and highlights key molecular and cellular therapeutic targets, such as signaling pathways (MAPK, NF-kB) and cancer stem cells. Current therapeutic strategies, including quorum-sensing inhibitors, nanotechnology-based drug delivery, and immunotherapy, are critically evaluated for their potential in overcoming biofilm-associated challenges. However, limitations such as resistance mechanisms, heterogeneity of biofilm communities, and translational barriers impede progress. Future perspectives underscore the need for multi-targeted approaches, personalized medicine, and advanced computational tools to revolutionize biofilm-mediated oral cancer management. This review aims to provide a holistic understanding of the innovations and challenges in this evolving field, paving the way for more effective therapeutic interventions.