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Published on: January 29, 2018
Epigenetic deregulations in chordoma
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100042, China.
Abstract:
Chordoma is a rare type of malignant bone tumour arising from remnant notochord and prognosis of patients with it remains poor as its molecular and genetic mechanisms are not well understood. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modification and nucleosome remodelling), play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Aberrant epigenetic patterns are present in patients with chordoma, indicating a potential role for epigenetic mechanisms inthis malignancy. Furthermore, epigenetic alterations may provide novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis as well as therapeutic targets for treatment. In this review, we discuss relevant epigenetic findings associated with chordoma, and their potential application for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
Insights
Chordoma, a rare bone cancer, has poor prognosis due to poorly understood molecular mechanisms. Epigenetic alterations are implicated in chordoma pathogenesis and may offer new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Chordoma is a rare malignant bone tumor originating from notochordal remnants.
- The molecular and genetic underpinnings of chordoma remain poorly understood, contributing to a poor patient prognosis.
- Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and nucleosome remodeling, are increasingly recognized for their role in disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current epigenetic findings related to chordoma.
- To explore the potential of epigenetic alterations as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
- To discuss epigenetic modifications as potential therapeutic targets for chordoma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epigenetic mechanisms in chordoma.
- Analysis of studies investigating DNA methylation, histone modification, and nucleosome remodeling in chordoma.
- Synthesis of findings on the clinical relevance of epigenetic alterations.
Main Results:
- Aberrant epigenetic patterns are observed in chordoma patients.
- Epigenetic alterations are implicated in the pathogenesis of this malignancy.
- Epigenetic modifications show promise for developing novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms play a significant role in chordoma development.
- Targeting epigenetic alterations could lead to improved diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic outcomes for chordoma patients.
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