Combined TP53 mutation/3p loss correlates with decreased radiosensitivity and increased matrix-metalloproteinase activity in head and neck carcinoma

TP53 mutation combined with FHIT deletion correlates with decreased radiosensitivity in HNC cell lines. Xenograft from “double-hit” cells exhibit increased MMP-2/9 activity. These findings may in part account for the worse clinical outcome seen in patients with HNSCC “double-hit” tumors.