Omits in oral cancer: New approaches for biomarker discovery

Objectives: In this review paper, we explored the application of omics approaches in the study of oral cancer (OC). It will provide a better understanding of how omits approaches may lead to novel biomarker molecules or molecular signatures with potential value in clinical practice. A future direction of omics-driven research in OC is also discussed. Methods: Studies on 'omits-based approaches [genomics/proteomics/transcriptomics/metabolomics] were investigated for differentiating oral squamous cell carcinoma,oral sub-mucous fibrosis, oral leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, oral erythroplakia from normal cases. Electronic databases viz., PubMed, Springer, and Google Scholar were searched. Results: One eighty-one studies were included in this review. The review shows that the fields of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics-based marker identification have implemented advanced tools to screen early changes in DNA, RNA, protein, and metabolite expression in OC population. Conclusions: It may be concluded that despite advances in OC therapy, symptomatic presentation occurs at an advanced stage, where various curative treatment options become very limited. A molecular level study is essential for detecting an OC biomarker at an early stage. Modern Omits strategies can potentially make a major contribution to meet this need.