In reply to Zhu W et al. (doi: 10.1111/odi.14376).

The article focuses on the role of the oral microbiome, specifically Capnocytophaga gingivalis, in promoting oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development. It highlights findings that C. gingivalis is abundant in OSCC tissues and that its supernatant induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), contributing to increased invasiveness and metastatic potential of OSCC cells. The article also discusses the need for further research into the mechanisms linking C. gingivalis to chronic inflammation, tumor progression, and treatment resistance, as well as the impact of radiation therapy and chemotherapy on the oral microbiome and treatment outcomes. These insights may inform future therapeutic strategies for OSCC.