Epigenetic factors in breast cancer therapy

Runjhun Mathur1,2, Niraj Kumar Jha1,3,4, Gaurav Saini5

  • 1Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India.

Frontiers in Genetics
|October 10, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression without altering DNA sequence. This review explores their role in breast cancer progression and therapy, focusing on estrogen signaling and DNA methylation.

Area of Science:

  • Epigenetics and Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Epigenetic modifications are heritable changes in gene expression, not DNA sequence.
  • Key epigenetic mechanisms include histone alterations, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNAs.
  • These modifications are vital for normal development and environmental adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of epigenetic mechanisms in breast cancer progression.
  • To examine the influence of estrogen signaling, polycomb/trithorax proteins, and DNA methylation in breast cancer.
  • To assess epigenetic strategies in breast cancer therapy, including functionality, regulation, and therapeutic potential.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature.
  • Analysis of epigenetic regulatory factors in breast cancer.
  • Evaluation of therapeutic implications of epigenetic modifications.

Main Results:

  • Estrogen signaling, polycomb/trithorax proteins, and DNA methylation are implicated in breast cancer progression.
  • Epigenetic mechanisms offer potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.
  • Understanding epigenetic regulation is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic modifications play a significant role in breast cancer development and progression.
  • Targeting epigenetic pathways presents a promising avenue for novel breast cancer therapies.
  • Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize epigenetic therapies for breast cancer.

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