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Updated: Dec 26, 2025
An Integrated Platform for Genome-wide Mapping of Chromatin States Using High-throughput ChIP-sequencing in Tumor Tissues
Published on: April 5, 2018
Targeting Epigenetic Dependencies in Solid Tumors: Evolutionary Landscape Beyond Germ Layers Origin
Francesca Citron1, Linda Fabris2
1Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA.
Abstract:
Extensive efforts recently witnessed the complexity of cancer biology; however, molecular medicine still lacks the ability to elucidate hidden mechanisms for the maintenance of specific subclasses of rare tumors characterized by the silent onset and a poor prognosis (e.g., ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and glioblastoma). Recent mutational fingerprints of human cancers highlighted genomic alteration occurring on epigenetic modulators. In this scenario, the epigenome dependency of cancer orchestrates a broad range of cellular processes critical for tumorigenesis and tumor progression, possibly mediating escaping mechanisms leading to drug resistance. Indeed, in this review, we discuss the pivotal role of chromatin remodeling in shaping the tumor architecture and modulating tumor fitness in a microenvironment-dependent context. We will also present recent advances in the epigenome targeting, posing a particular emphasis on how this knowledge could be translated into a feasible therapeutic approach to individualize clinical settings and improve patient outcomes.
Insights
Cancer epigenetics drives tumor progression and drug resistance. Targeting chromatin remodeling offers new avenues for personalized cancer therapies, improving patient outcomes in rare, aggressive cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Cancer biology complexity necessitates understanding rare tumor mechanisms.
- Epigenetic alterations are key drivers in tumorigenesis and progression.
- Drug resistance in cancers like ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and glioblastoma is a major challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of epigenetics in cancer development and progression.
- To highlight the impact of chromatin remodeling on tumor architecture and fitness.
- To explore advances in epigenome targeting for personalized cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on cancer epigenetics.
- Analysis of genomic alterations in epigenetic modulators.
- Discussion of chromatin remodeling's role in tumor microenvironment.
Main Results:
- Epigenome dependency is crucial for cancer cell processes.
- Chromatin remodeling influences tumor architecture and fitness.
- Epigenetic targeting strategies are emerging for therapeutic use.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are vital in rare, aggressive cancers.
- Targeting the epigenome holds promise for individualized cancer treatment.
- Translating epigenome knowledge into clinical practice can improve patient outcomes.
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