Structural defects in the TβR–I or TβR-II receptor have also been reported in oral cancers although these are not common, suggesting that alterations of gene expression rather than gene mutation are likely to be more important in the pathogenesis of oral cancer (Garrigue-Antar et al, 1995; Wang et al, 1997; Paterson et al, 2001). The gene discussed is TGFBR1; the disease is lip and oral cavity carcinoma.