Silent Signals: Decoding Long Non-Coding RNAs in Oral Cancer

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Course Overview

What if some of the most important drivers of oral cancer do not produce proteins at all?

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were once considered biologically insignificant. Today, they are recognised as important regulators of gene expression and are increasingly being investigated for their role in cancer development, progression, and prognosis.

In this session, Prof. Kiran Kumar explores the emerging role of lncRNAs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), explaining how these “silent” molecules influence tumour biology and why they are attracting growing attention as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets.

The session provides an accessible introduction to the biology of lncRNAs, their involvement in key cancer pathways, and their potential future applications in oral cancer diagnosis and management.

Whether you are a postgraduate student, researcher, clinician, or educator, this lecture offers valuable insights into one of the most rapidly evolving areas of oral cancer research.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants should be able to:

• Describe the basic biology and functions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).

• Explain the role of lncRNAs in the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

• Discuss the mechanisms through which lncRNAs influence gene expression and cancer-related signalling pathways.

• Evaluate the potential of lncRNAs as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets in oral cancer.

• Appreciate the emerging role of molecular biomarkers in precision oncology and oral cancer research.

Faculty

Prof. Kiran Kumar, MDS, PhD

Prof. Kiran Kumar is a Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology with a special interest in oral cancer research, molecular pathology, and biomarkers.

His work has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive oral squamous cell carcinoma, including the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and other emerging biomarkers. Through his research and teaching, he has contributed to advancing our understanding of how molecular changes influence cancer development and progression.

In this session, he explores the biology, clinical relevance, and future potential of lncRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of oral cancer.