Targeting PLK1 Reduces MMP10 to Enhance Radiosensitivity in HPV- Head and Neck Cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Radiotherapy is a key treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), yet local recurrence remains a challenge, especially in patients with human papilloma virus negative (HPV-) HNSCC. Our studies identify polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) as a promising target for HNSCC. PLK1 is overexpressed in HNSCC and associated with worse survival.

Experimental design

Onvansertib was used to assess the effect of PLK1 inhibition on cell viability and spheroid growth in HPV- and HPV-positive (HPV+) HNSCC cells. Cell-cycle analysis was done to assess G2/M arrest when combining PLK1 inhibition with radiation. Colony formation and in vivo tumor growth assays were done to evaluate the efficacy of the combination of PLK1 inhibition with radiation. RNA sequencing was done to ident

SUBMITTER: Korns J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12752811 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature