GENDER-BASED DISPARITIES IN GENE EXPRESSION AND MUTATION PROFILES IN ORAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA REVEALED BY THE WHOLE EXOME SEQUENCING AND RNA SEQUENCING

Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSC) is a fast-growing form of cancer. This cancer originates in the squamous cells of the mouth and throat and primarily affects individuals who engage in risky lifestyle choices such as tobacco and alcohol consumption. The poor prognosis and high mortality rate of HNSC underline the urgent need for extensive research and novel treatment approaches. This comprehensive study aims to determine the genetic and gene expression differences between male and female patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). It will also be examined whether differences in unique genes are common in both male and female patients. We used the Galaxy web server to conduct a study employing whole exome sequencing (WES) and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data. The research we conduct requires accurate sample preparation that allows us to obtain useful insights. We found variations in the aligned reads within the WES data that provide insight into particular genetic variations associated with OSCC. At the same time, we discovered various gene expression patterns in the RNA-sequence data. In particular, we observed that the expression of some genes altered in the presence of associated genetic mutations, displaying an obvious connection between genetic variation and modulation of gene expression. In an attempt to identify a gender-independent treatment target, we found a variety of genes that were significantly upregulated or downregulated in both male and female OSCC samples. These genes shared dysregulation across genders, making them interesting treatment targets. Using this insight, we started drug design efforts to develop appropriate precision medicine options for OSCC patients of all genders. This ground-breaking research advances our understanding of OSCC. It paves the way for targeted, gender-neutral medications that provide enhanced outcomes and quality of life for people with this difficult condition.