Basal cell carcinoma — molecular biology and potential new therapies

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) was the most common skin malignancy among individuals of mixed European descent, with its incidence rising due to aging and sun exposure. The discovery that aberrant Hedgehog signaling was a key feature in BCC development led to significant advancements in understanding its biology. Genetic mouse models that closely mimicked human BCCs helped identify the tumor cell of origin. Inhibition of Hedgehog signaling emerged as a promising targeted therapy for patients with advanced or multiple BCCs, offering potential treatment options where there were previously few.