1. Home
  2. Current Affairs
  3. Current News
  4. Key Gene Mutations Driving Oral Cancer in Women Identified

Key Gene Mutations Driving Oral Cancer in Women Identified

  • 02 Dec 2025

In November 2025, Indian scientists uncovered critical gene mutations linked to oral cancer among women in southern India, offering important insights into a disease that poses a significant public health challenge.

Key Points

  • Research Focus: The study examined female patients with a history of chewing tobacco-infused betel quid, a major risk factor for oral cancer in southern and northeastern India.
  • Genetic Analysis: Whole-exome sequencing of tumour samples from 38 women revealed ten significant gene mutations.
  • CASP8 & TP53 Findings: CASP8 emerged as a potential driver mutation in women, differing from patterns seen in male-focused studies, while co-occurring TP53 and CASP8 mutations were linked to aggressive and recurrent cancers.
  • AI-Based Immune Profiling: Artificial intelligence analysis identified two distinct patient groups with differing immune responses, pointing toward varying treatment outcomes.
  • Clinical Implications: The findings underscore the need for more women-focused cancer studies and could inform personalised treatment approaches, though larger cohort validation is required.