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Epigenetic inactivation of DNA repair in breast cancer

Somaira Nowsheen1, Khaled Aziz, Phuoc T Tran

  • 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.

Cancer Letters
|May 29, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation are key in cancer development, especially breast cancer. Targeting these epigenetic pathways offers promising clinical applications for cancer treatment and early detection.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, play a crucial role in cancer development by altering gene expression.
  • These modifications are prevalent in neoplastic phenotypes, with a specific focus on breast cancer in this review.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review epigenetic modifications in cancer, particularly breast cancer.
  • To explore the clinical utility of targeting epigenetic pathways in cancer therapy.
  • To discuss other clinical applications of epigenetics in cancer management.

Main Methods:

  • Mini-review of existing literature on epigenetic mechanisms in cancer.
  • Focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications.
  • Examination of clinical applications and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic alterations are integral to cancer transformation pathways.
  • Drugs targeting DNA methylation and histone acetylation have improved survival in certain leukemias and lymphomas.
  • Epigenetics holds potential for cancer screening, early detection, prevention, and prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting epigenetic pathways represents a significant therapeutic strategy in oncology.
  • Epigenetic modifications are crucial for understanding and managing various cancers, including breast cancer.
  • Further research into clinical applications of epigenetics can enhance cancer patient outcomes.
Keywords:
BiomarkersBreast cancerCancerCarcinogenesisDNA damageEpigeneticsPersonalized treatment

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