Basal Cell Carcinoma: Molecular Biology and Potential New Therapies

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) was described as a locally invasive skin cancer with a low risk of metastasis, primarily affecting individuals with fair skin exposed to UV radiation. The molecular biology of BCC revealed that the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway played a crucial role in its development, with genetic syndromes like basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) predisposing individuals to BCC due to mutations in the Hh pathway. Other pathways, such as Wnt and EGFR/MEK/ERK, were also implicated in BCC growth, highlighting the complexity of its molecular underpinnings. The study of BCC emphasized the importance of genetic factors, cellular context, and epithelial-stromal interactions in tumor growth, suggesting potential targets for new therapies.