Areas covered: Here we describe novel agents, their mechanism(s) of action, preclinical results, and ongoing clinical trials in HNSCC.
Expert opinion: Established therapeutic targets in HNSCC include EGFR (cetuximab) and PD-1 (pembrolizumab and nivolumab). Despite the detection of many other possible targets in HNSCC cell lines and patient tumors, no other therapies have successfully advanced to date. Identification of predictive biomarkers may guide the use of targeted agents and combination therapies. Clinical trials supported by strong preclinical data in relevant models are more likely to advance treatment options.
Keywords: HNSCC; PI3K inhibitors; breakthough designation; immunotherapy; radiation therapy.