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Published on: November 28, 2019
Epigenetic control of the tumor microenvironment.
David L Marks1, Rachel Lo Olson1,2, Martin E Fernandez-Zapico1
1Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modifications regulate tumor microenvironment stromal cells. Understanding these epigenetic changes offers new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Tumor microenvironment stromal cells influence cancer progression.
- Epigenetic dysregulation is implicated in altered stromal cell phenotypes.
- Limited research exists on epigenetic regulation of stromal cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epigenetic mechanisms regulating stromal cell phenotype.
- To discuss implications for cancer treatment.
- To summarize effects of epigenetic drugs on stromal cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies.
- Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modification, miRNA).
- Evaluation of epigenetic drug effects on stromal cells.
Main Results:
- Specific epigenetic mechanisms drive stromal cell phenotype.
- Epigenetic drug effects on stromal cells are varied.
- Microenvironment response to epigenetic drugs needs consideration.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic regulation is crucial for stromal cell function in cancer.
- Targeting epigenetic mechanisms presents therapeutic opportunities.
- Further research is needed on microenvironment-specific drug responses.
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