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The cancer epigenome: Concepts, challenges, and therapeutic opportunities

Mark A Dawson1

  • 1Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; and Department of Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.

Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 18, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic alterations drive cancer development and evolution. This review covers new epigenetic therapies targeting cancer, exploring mechanisms of sensitivity, resistance, and future combination strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cancer Biology

Background:

  • Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in cancer biology.
  • The epigenome's plasticity allows for therapeutic intervention.
  • Recent advancements focus on targeted epigenetic therapies for cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of recent developments in epigenetic therapies for cancer.
  • To elucidate the role of epigenetic regulators in cancer initiation, maintenance, and evolution.
  • To discuss mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance to epigenetic agents and explore future combination therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on epigenetic regulators in cancer.
  • Analysis of newly developed epigenetic therapies.
  • Examination of cellular and molecular mechanisms governing treatment response.
  • Exploration of rationale for combination epigenetic drug therapies.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic regulators are key drivers in cancer initiation, maintenance, and evolution.
  • Novel epigenetic therapies are emerging with potential for cancer treatment.
  • Understanding mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance is crucial for therapeutic success.
  • Combination therapies involving epigenetic drugs show promise for enhanced efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted epigenetic therapies represent a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
  • Further research into resistance mechanisms and combination strategies is warranted.
  • Epigenetic drugs hold potential for improving patient outcomes in oncology.

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