Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote oral squamous cell carcinoma progression through LOX-mediated matrix stiffness.

Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant cells in the tumor microenvironment, have prominent roles in the development of solid tumors as stromal targets. However, the underlying mechanism of CAFs' function in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression in CAFs in tumor stromal remodeling and the mechanism of its effect on OSCC progression.

Tertiary lymphoid structures in oral lichen planus and oral epithelial dysplasia with lichenoid features: A comparative study.

Objective: Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) provide sites for antigen presentation and activation of lymphocytes, promoting their infiltration; thus, enhancing specific immune responses. The aim of this comparative cross-sectional study was to reveal the characteristics and influence of TLSs in oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) with lichenoid features.

Methods: Clinical information and samples of 51 OLP and 19 OED with lichenoid features were collected.