Epigenetic mechanisms in metal carcinogenesis
Luka Manić1, David Wallace2, Pinar Uysal Onganer3
1Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
Toxicology Reports
|December 23, 2022
Summary
Toxic metals like arsenic and cadmium cause cancer through epigenetic changes. This review details DNA methylation, miRNA, and histone modifications, aiding exposure control and therapy development.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Epigenetics
- Carcinogenesis
Background:
- Ubiquitous exposure to toxic metals in daily life (water, food, air).
- Metals like arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and nickel are recognized carcinogens.
- Carcinogenic metal exposure leads to severe health issues, including cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epigenetic mechanisms in metal-induced carcinogenesis.
- To explore DNA methylation, miRNA regulation, and histone modifications.
- To contextualize mechanisms within real-life exposure scenarios.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of epigenetic mechanisms.
- Analysis from both metal-specific and mechanism-specific perspectives.
- Integration of exposure science with molecular mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Detailed summary of epigenetic alterations (DNA methylation, miRNA, histone modifications) induced by carcinogenic metals.
- Discussion of how these epigenetic changes contribute to cancer development.
- Identification of key mechanisms linking metal exposure to genotoxicity and carcinogenicity.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications are crucial in metal-induced cancer.
- Understanding these mechanisms can guide future research on exposure assessment and control.
- This knowledge supports the development of novel therapeutic strategies against metal-related cancers.
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