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Adapting 3' Rapid Amplification of CDNA Ends to Map Transcripts in Cancer
Published on: March 28, 2018
Writers, readers and erasers of RNA modifications in cancer
Rosaura Esteve-Puig1, Alberto Bueno-Costa1, Manel Esteller2
1Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
Abstract:
Although cancer was originally considered a disease driven only by genetic mutations, it has now been proven that it is also an epigenetic disease driven by DNA hypermethylation-associated silencing of tumor suppressor genes and aberrant histone modifications. Very recently, a third component has emerged: the so-called epitranscriptome understood as the chemical modifications of RNA that regulate and alter the activity of RNA molecules. In this regard, the study of genetic and epigenetic disruption of the RNA-modifying proteins is gaining momentum in advancing our understanding of cancer biology. Furthermore, the development of epitranscriptomic anticancer drugs could lead to new promising and unexpected therapeutic strategies for oncology in the coming years.
Insights
Cancer is increasingly understood as an epigenetic disease, involving RNA modifications. Research into epitranscriptomic disruptions offers promising new avenues for cancer drug development and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Cancer was initially viewed solely as a genetic disease.
- Emerging evidence highlights cancer's epigenetic nature, involving DNA methylation and histone modifications.
- The epitranscriptome, encompassing RNA chemical modifications, is a newly recognized factor in cancer biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of the epitranscriptome in cancer.
- To investigate the impact of genetic and epigenetic disruptions on RNA-modifying proteins in cancer.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of targeting the epitranscriptome for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on cancer genetics, epigenetics, and epitranscriptomics.
- Analysis of the role of RNA-modifying proteins in cancer development and progression.
- Exploration of potential epitranscriptomic therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Genetic and epigenetic alterations are crucial in cancer.
- Epitranscriptomic modifications significantly influence RNA activity and cancer biology.
- Disruptions in RNA-modifying proteins are key areas of investigation.
Conclusions:
- Cancer is a complex disease involving genetic, epigenetic, and epitranscriptomic factors.
- Understanding epitranscriptomic alterations is vital for advancing cancer research.
- Targeting the epitranscriptome presents novel therapeutic opportunities for oncology.
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