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Epigenetic processes in sporadic parathyroid neoplasms
Angelica M Silva-Figueroa1, Nancy D Perrier1
1Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
Abstract:
Parathyroid tumors (PTs) are highly variable in their genetic background. Increasing evidence demonstrates that endocrine diseases can be caused by epigenetic alterations. The present review is focused on epigenetic aberrations related to PTs. DNA methylation, posttranslational histone modification, and noncoding RNAs are epigenetic mechanisms involved in parathyroid tumorigenesis. The information in this review has the potential to define epigenetic signatures associated with PTs for future use as diagnostic markers and lead to the development of new epigenetic drugs with therapeutic applications for these tumors. However, several epigenetic aspects regarding the biomarkers involved and their interactions in tumorigenesis on PTs are still unknown. Key to future epigenetic research would be a focus on global epigenetic identification of biomarkers in the different types of PTs, especially in parathyroid carcinoma. Better understanding may be useful for diagnostic and therapeutic uncertainty.
Insights
Epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation and noncoding RNAs, drive parathyroid tumor development. Understanding these epigenetic signatures may lead to new diagnostic markers and therapies for parathyroid tumors.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Parathyroid tumors (PTs) exhibit significant genetic diversity.
- Epigenetic alterations are increasingly recognized as causes of endocrine diseases.
- This review focuses on the role of epigenetics in parathyroid tumorigenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epigenetic aberrations in parathyroid tumors.
- To highlight potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications of epigenetic findings.
- To identify gaps in current knowledge regarding PT epigenetics.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on epigenetic mechanisms in parathyroid tumors.
- Analysis of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs in tumorigenesis.
- Discussion of potential epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- DNA methylation, posttranslational histone modification, and noncoding RNAs are key epigenetic mechanisms in parathyroid tumorigenesis.
- Epigenetic signatures hold potential for diagnosing PTs and developing targeted therapies.
- Significant knowledge gaps remain concerning biomarker interactions and their roles.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic research is crucial for understanding PTs, particularly parathyroid carcinoma.
- Further investigation into global epigenetic biomarkers is needed.
- Improved understanding can resolve diagnostic and therapeutic uncertainties in PT management.