Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies ZBP1-dependent mechanisms in OSCC progression.

ABSTRACT: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a highly aggressive head and neck malignancy with a poor prognosis associated with its complex tumor microenvironment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contribute to tumor progression by secreting various signaling molecules. This study investigates the molecular mechanism through which Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1) promotes OSCC development through CAF regulation. To this end, orthotopic MOC1 transplantation and 4NQO-induced carcinogenesis OSCC models were established with Zbp1^-/- mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analyzed cellular heterogeneity and signaling network alterations in the tumor microenvironment. An in vitro CAF induction model combined with a Transwell co-culture system clarified the molecular mechanism of ZBP

SUBMITTER: Lin X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12749536 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature