Objective:

The aim of the project is to investigate the molecular, immunological, and biochemical characteristics of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in individuals younger than 50 years without known risk factors (smoking, alcohol consumption, HPV). The project seeks to establish a foundation for a personalized treatment approach through the identification of novel biomarkers and tumor transcriptomic profiles.

Methods:

Clinical, histopathological, and biological data will be collected from patients who underwent surgical treatment at the Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Dubrava University Hospital, a reference center of the Ministry of Health for maxillofacial tumor surgery, during the period from 2015 to 2029. Expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) will be analyzed from tumor tissue using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Biomarkers (melatonin, opiorphin, IL-1β, CGRP, TNF-α) will be quantified in serum and saliva using ELISA. Immuno-inflammatory indices (SIRI, SII, AISI, NLR, PLR, LMR, HALP) will be calculated from peripheral blood samples. All data will be integrated into an upgraded digital oncology database containing more than 150 variables per patient and analyzed in relation to survival, disease stage, and the biological behavior of the tumor.

Expected Results:

The project is expected to identify lncRNA expression profiles characteristic of younger OSCC patients without risk factors, determine the prognostic value of immunological indices and salivary biomarkers, and develop clinical models for risk stratification and outcome prediction.

Scientific Contribution:

This project will provide deeper insight into OSCC in a specific patient population and pave the way for personalized, molecularly guided treatment. The digital database and integrative approach will facilitate the translation of results into clinical practice and support the development of future protocols for early detection and precision treatment of malignant tumors of the oral cavity.