Oral Cancer Model

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a predominant form of head and neck cancer that poses a major global health burden, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The complexity of its etiology and molecular pathways necessitates robust experimental systems to enhance diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies. This chapter comprehensively overviews various preclinical models used to study OSCC. In vitro platforms, from traditional 2D cultures to sophisticated 3D systems such as spheroids, organoids, and tumor-on-a-chip technologies, offer detailed insights into tumor biology and drug screening. In vivo models, including chemically induced tumors, xenografts, and genetically modified mice, remain indispensable for studying tumor progression and therapeutic responses in a whole-organism context. The zebrafish model, particularly through larval xenografts, has recently gained traction due to its suitability for high-throughput and personalized medicine applications. Complementing this, in silico models utilize computational tools to simulate disease dynamics and predict drug interactions. Together, these integrated modeling approaches are crucial for uncovering biomarkers, refining treatments, and improving clinical outcomes in OSCC research.