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Epigenome editing in cancer: Advances and challenges for potential therapeutic options

Seung-Won Lee1, Connor Mitchell Frankston2, Jungsun Kim3

  • 1Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States; Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States.

International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology
|February 15, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic alterations, influenced by environmental factors, contribute to cancer development. Emerging epigenetic editing technologies offer promising new avenues for cancer therapy and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Cancer arises from genetic and non-genetic factors, with epigenetic alterations playing a key role.
  • Epigenetic changes can affect tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, leading to abnormal cellular states.
  • Environmental influences are increasingly recognized as contributors to epigenetic modifications in cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of epigenetic alterations in cancer.
  • To explore the potential of epigenetic editing technologies for cancer treatment.
  • To bridge the gap between epigenetic research and therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epigenetic alterations in various cancers.
  • Analysis of current gene editing technologies applicable to epigenetics.
  • Discussion of preclinical and clinical research in epigenetic therapy.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic modifications are hallmarks of cancer, impacting gene expression and cellular function.
  • Gene editing tools, such as CRISPR-based epigenetic editors, are advancing rapidly.
  • These technologies demonstrate potential for targeted reversal of cancer-associated epigenetic changes.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic alterations are critical drivers of cancer development and progression.
  • Epigenetic editing presents a novel therapeutic frontier for precision oncology.
  • Further research is needed to translate these technologies into effective cancer treatments.
Keywords:
Epigenetic alterationsEpigenetic therapeutic optionsEpigenome editing

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