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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
An Integrated Platform for Genome-wide Mapping of Chromatin States Using High-throughput ChIP-sequencing in Tumor Tissues
Published on: April 5, 2018
Epigenetic alterations in cancer and personalized cancer treatment
Monica Miozzo1, Valentina Vaira, Silvia Maria Sirchia
1Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy.
Abstract:
Based on the pivotal importance of epigenetics for transcription regulation, it is not surprising that cancer is characterized by several epigenetic abnormalities. Conversely to genetic alterations, epigenetic changes are not permanent, thus represent opportunities for therapeutic strategies designed to reverse transcriptional abnormalities, and cancer is the first disease in which epigenetic therapies with chromatin remodeling agents were introduced. The role of miRNAs in gene regulation supports their potential as innovative therapeutic strategy. Recent evidences have proven that the environment can profoundly influence the epigenome: diet, smoking and alcohol consumption can negatively impact the expression profile. Given the plasticity of epigenetic marks, it is challenging the idea that the epigenetic alterations are 'druggable' sites using specific food components.
Insights
Epigenetic abnormalities are hallmarks of cancer, offering therapeutic opportunities. Environmental factors and diet can influence the epigenome, suggesting potential for food-based epigenetic therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Epigenetics plays a crucial role in gene transcription regulation.
- Cancer is associated with numerous epigenetic abnormalities.
- Epigenetic alterations are reversible, unlike genetic mutations, presenting therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of epigenetics in cancer.
- To discuss the potential of epigenetic therapies.
- To examine the influence of environmental factors on the epigenome.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on epigenetics and cancer.
- Analysis of the impact of environmental factors (diet, smoking, alcohol) on epigenetic marks.
- Evaluation of microRNAs (miRNAs) in gene regulation and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic therapies, including chromatin remodeling agents, have been introduced in cancer treatment.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as innovative therapeutic agents.
- Environmental factors significantly impact the epigenome, affecting gene expression profiles.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications in cancer are reversible and druggable.
- Dietary components may offer a strategy for modulating epigenetic alterations.
- Further research is needed to fully harness the potential of epigenetic modifications for cancer therapy.
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