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Epigenetics in disease and cancer
1Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia. chookb@utar.edu.my
The Malaysian Journal of Pathology
|February 4, 2012
Summary
Epigenetics, the study of gene expression changes without altering DNA sequence, offers new insights into diseases like cancer. Understanding epigenetic mechanisms is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Gene expression regulation is complex, extending beyond traditional genetics.
- Epigenetics explains biological observations not deciphered by genetic mutations alone.
- Epigenetic alterations are reversible and impact cellular functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review core concepts and experimental approaches in epigenetic regulation of gene expression.
- To highlight the link between epigenetic changes and human diseases, particularly cancer.
- To emphasize the growing importance of epigenetics in clinical research and therapeutic development.
Main Methods:
- Review of established epigenetic mechanisms: chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA).
- Discussion of experimental approaches used to study epigenetic regulation.
- Analysis of the role of epigenetics in disease pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic mechanisms (chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, miRNA) significantly influence gene expression.
- Epigenetic alterations are implicated in the development of various human diseases and cancers.
- Epigenetics provides a new layer of understanding for biological functions and disease.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetics is a critical field for understanding disease mechanisms beyond genetics.
- Physicians and clinical scientists must integrate epigenetic knowledge into their research and practice.
- Targeting epigenetic modifications offers promising avenues for new cancer and disease therapies.
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01:37Epigenetic Regulation
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01:46Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
01:46Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
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Genes usually encode proteins necessary for the proper functioning of a healthy cell. Mutations can often cause changes to the gene expression pattern, thereby altering the phenotype.
When the function of certain critical genes, especially those involved in cell cycle regulation and cell growth signaling cascades, gets disrupted, it upsets the cell cycle progression. Such cells with unchecked cell cycles start proliferating uncontrollably and eventually develop into tumors.
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