The role of epigenetics in the biology of multiple myeloma

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K Dimopoulos1, P Gimsing1, K Grønbæk1

  • 1Department of Hematology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Blood Cancer Journal
|May 3, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic aberrations, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are key in multiple myeloma (MM) development. Novel epigenetic drugs show promise for future MM treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex cancer driven by disrupted pathways.
  • Genetic abnormalities play a role, but epigenetic aberrations are increasingly recognized as crucial in MM pathobiology.
  • Research has elucidated the roles of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs in MM.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of epigenetic abnormalities in multiple myeloma.
  • To discuss how these epigenetic changes affect specific cancer pathways.
  • To highlight the potential of novel epigenetic drugs ('epidrugs') in MM treatment.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes current research on epigenetic mechanisms in multiple myeloma.
  • It examines the impact of epigenetic alterations on MM pathobiology.
  • The review focuses on the therapeutic potential of emerging epigenetic drugs.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic aberrations are integral to the development and progression of multiple myeloma.
  • Specific epigenetic modifications influence key cancer pathways relevant to MM.
  • Histone deacetylase inhibitors are among the epigenetic drugs showing promise in MM clinical trials.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic dysregulation is a critical factor in multiple myeloma.
  • Targeting epigenetic mechanisms offers a promising avenue for novel MM therapies.
  • Future research and clinical trials will further define the role of 'epidrugs' in managing MM.

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