Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Role Against Head and Neck Cancer

The cases of different types of cancers are rising every day all over the world. It is a major concern and needs much attention regarding new therapeutics. Head and neck cancer is the seventh most prevalent cancer, which is caused by the intake of tobacco and excessive alcohol for several years. Also, it is more common in men. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is also a risk factor for head and neck cancer. The treatment plan includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Antimicrobial peptides have gained the limelight in recent years when there is a discussion on having new anticancer therapeutics. It is made up of approximately 10–60 amino acids and can be obtained from a variety of sources, including prokaryotes and eukaryotes. They have an interesting quality of inhibition against different viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Also, they have an exciting application in cancer therapy as anticancer peptides (ACPs) and have a promising future in the field of medicine.