Abstract
Casein kinase 1δ (CK1δ, encoded by casein kinase 1 delta) (CSNK1D) is a serine/threonine protein kinase closely associated with cancer development. However, the biological functions of CSNK1D in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain unclear. This study identifies CSNK1D as a previously unrecognized yet crucial regulator in the progression of HNSCC. CSNK1D expression levels were upregulated in tumor tissues and the up-regulation was positively correlated with poor survival in patients with HNSCC. Moreover, CSNK1D selectively bound SHH and PTCH1, and regulated the stability of the CSNK1D-SHH-PTCH1 complex to control the GLI1-BCL2 axis, leading to the downstream activation of the hedgehog pathway. SB-203580 could target and inhibit CSNK1D, offering new perspectives for the clinical treatment of HNSCC. Overall, CSNK1D is underscored as a vital oncogenic driver and promising therapeutic target for HNSCC.