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Disruption of the Molecular Circadian Clock and Cancer: An Epigenetic Link

Fabiola Hernández-Rosas1, Carlos Alberto López-Rosas2, Margarita Virginia Saavedra-Vélez3

  • 1Department of Research, Molecular Diagnostic Lab in Human Health, Central ADN, Antigua Carretera a Pátzcuaro Km 2 No.1955, Col. Ex Hacienda San José de la Huerta, P.C. 58341, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. fhernandezrosas85@gmail.com.

Biochemical Genetics
|September 26, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Alterations in clock genes, crucial for cellular balance, are linked to cancer development. Epigenetic changes in these genes may play a significant role in tumorigenesis, but this connection requires further research.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • The circadian clock, regulated by clock genes, maintains cellular homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of clock genes is implicated in various diseases, including cancer.
  • Some clock genes exhibit tumor suppressor functions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the evidence linking clock gene expression alterations to cancer development.
  • To explore the role of the epigenetic landscape in the circadian regulation of cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on circadian clock genes, epigenetics, and cancer.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms connecting circadian transcription, cell cycle control, and tumorigenesis.
  • Examination of epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications) in circadian regulation and cancer.

Main Results:

  • Genetic and epigenetic alterations in clock genes are associated with cancer.
  • Clock genes like Per1, Per2, and Bmal1 are involved in carcinogenesis.
  • Epigenetic control of circadian transcription is emerging, but its link to cancer is not fully elucidated.

Conclusions:

  • Evidence suggests a relationship between altered clock gene expression and cancer.
  • The epigenetic landscape may significantly influence the circadian control of cancer.
  • Further research is needed to clarify the precise link between the circadian epigenome and cancer development.
Keywords:
CancerChromatin remodelingCircadian epigenomeClock genes

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