Methyltransferases in the Pathogenesis of Keratinocyte Cancers

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Keratinocyte cancers (KCs), including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), are the most common human cancers.
• Dysregulation of methylation processes (DNA, RNA, histone) is implicated in KC pathogenesis.
• The intricate cross-talk between these distinct methylation pathways in KCs is an emerging area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current findings on the role of DNA, RNA, and histone methylation alterations in KC development.
• To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying methylation dysregulation in KCs.
• To highlight potential therapeutic strategies emerging from the understanding of methylation cross-talk in KCs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of recent evidence.
• Analysis of molecular and mechanistic changes in KC pathogenesis related to methylation.
• Exploration of cross-talk between different methylation processes.

Main Results:

• Gene expression disruption via altered DNA, RNA, and histone methylation is critical in KC pathogenesis.
• Methylation modifiers are frequently dysregulated in KCs, but underlying mechanisms are still being elucidated.
• Significant cross-talk exists among DNA, RNA, and histone methylation processes in KCs.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the interplay of methylation processes offers novel therapeutic avenues for KCs.
• Targeting methylation pathways presents a promising strategy for treating BCC and cSCC.
• Further research into methylation cross-talk is crucial for advancing KC therapies.