Histone deacetylase inhibitors and epigenetic modifications as a novel strategy in renal cell carcinoma

Swathi Ramakrishnan1, Roberto Pili

  • 1Genitourinary Program and Department of Cancer Pathology and Prevention, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA.

Insights

Epigenetic alterations in histone and DNA are key in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development and progression. Targeted chromatin remodeling therapies show promise for treating RCC, despite clinical translation challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) exhibits significant epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation changes and histone modifier gene alterations.
  • These epigenetic changes are implicated in RCC tumorigenesis and may correlate with an aggressive disease phenotype.
  • Tumor heterogeneity presents a challenge for translating these findings into effective clinical treatments for RCC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent findings on aberrant histone and DNA alterations in RCC.
  • To highlight the potential of targeted chromatin remodeling therapies for managing RCC.
  • To discuss the challenges in translating epigenetic insights into clinical practice for RCC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent investigations into epigenetic modifications in RCC.
  • Analysis of preclinical models and identified genetic/enzymatic alterations.
  • Examination of identified DNA methylation changes and histone modifier mutations.

Main Results:

  • Aberrant histone and DNA alterations are frequently reported in RCC.
  • Specific epigenetic changes are associated with a more aggressive RCC phenotype.
  • Targeted chromatin remodeling agents are under investigation for their therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic dysregulation is a critical factor in RCC pathogenesis.
  • Targeted chromatin remodeling therapies offer a promising avenue for RCC treatment.
  • Overcoming tumor heterogeneity is crucial for successful clinical application of these therapies.

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