Squamous_cell_carcinoma___Sequeira

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of only 50%. Recent whole exome sequencing of human HNSCC has highlighted the heterogeneity of the underlying genetic lesions (Agrawal et al., 2011; Stransky et al., 2011). One of the most intriguing findings from whole exome sequencing is the high frequency of inactivating mutations in NOTCH1. The aim of our project is to unravel at what stage in tumour development the epithelium acquires the p53, Notch, Caspase 8 and FAT1 mutations, that are a hallmark of the human cancer, and the impact on different cell types, using a mouse model of carcinogen induced oral SCC. Furthermore, identifying epithelial and stromal alterations that reflect genetic mutations will provide indicators offering an exciting strategy for diagnosis and treatment of cancer.