The interplay of cytokine signaling and non-coding RNAs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma pathobiology.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Despite aggressive treatment approaches, the recurrence of HNSCC remains a challenge. Cytokines play an essential role in HNSCC development and progression. They are not only involved in promoting cancer growth but may also be involved in an anti-tumor immune response. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as important transcriptional and post-transcriptional mediators of cytokine function in HNSCC. This review focuses on the complex regulatory network among regulatory ncRNAs and cytokines during HNSCC pathogenesis.