BHU Researchers Develop World’s First Molecular Classification of Oral Cancer

A Landmark Advance in Cancer Research

Researchers at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have achieved a major scientific breakthrough by developing the world’s first systematic molecular classification of oral cancer . The study, published on December 25 in the journal Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research , is expected to significantly improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes, particularly in India and Southeast Asia , where oral cancer incidence is among the highest globally.

Moving Beyond Traditional Diagnosis

Led by the Department of Surgical Oncology, BHU , the research was supported by the Health Technology Assessment in India (HTAIn) BHU team and the DHR–ICMR DIAMOnDS programme . By analysing genomic data and synthesising evidence from over 8,000 scientific studies , the team moved beyond conventional morphology-based classification towards a biology-driven framework that reflects the molecular behaviour of tumours.

Five Distinct Molecular Subtypes

The study identifies five molecular pathways underlying oral cancer: Cell-Cycle Dysregulation (CCD) , Immune-Mediated (IM) , Xenobiotic Metabolism-Associated (XMA) , Inflammatory Pathway Activation (IPA) , and Viral Protein Activation (VPA) . Each subtype is associated with specific genes and biological mechanisms. This enables clinicians to select targeted therapies , such as HER2 inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, or personalised immunotherapy , instead of relying on uniform chemotherapy protocols.

India-Centric Precision Medicine

A key strength of the framework is its India-specific relevance . It gives due importance to pathways linked to tobacco and betel quid consumption , major risk factors in Indian patients. The study also shows that human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a limited role in most Indian oral cancers, reducing the risk of misapplying Western treatment models.

Clinical Impact and Challenges

The classification supports a “Right Drug for the Right Patient” approach, minimising trial-and-error treatment and lowering financial burden. While adoption by oncology centres is expected, challenges remain in testing costs, drug accessibility, and large-scale clinical validation .

Important Facts for Exams

• Oral cancer incidence is high in India due to tobacco and betel quid use

• First-ever molecular classification of oral cancer proposed

• Five molecular subtypes identified for targeted therapy

• Emphasis on precision medicine over blanket chemotherapy