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Updated: Jun 27, 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 the chromatin structural changes of antitumor immunity
Nian-Nian Li1,2, Deng-Xing Lun1, Ningning Gong3
1Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China.
Abstract:
Epigenomic imbalance drives abnormal transcriptional processes, promoting the onset and progression of cancer. Although defective gene regulation generally affects carcinogenesis and tumor suppression networks, tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses may also be affected by epigenomic changes, which may have significant implications for the development and application of epigenetic therapy, cancer immunotherapy, and their combinations. Herein, we focus on the impact of epigenetic regulation on tumor immune cell function and the role of key abnormal epigenetic processes, DNA methylation, histone post-translational modification, and chromatin structure in tumor immunogenicity, and introduce these epigenetic research methods. We emphasize the value of small-molecule inhibitors of epigenetic modulators in enhancing antitumor immune responses and discuss the challenges of developing treatment plans that combine epigenetic therapy and immunotherapy through the complex interaction between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology.
Insights
Epigenomic imbalance in cancer affects tumor immunity. Targeting epigenetic processes with small molecules can enhance anti-tumor responses, offering new combination therapy strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Epigenomic alterations are hallmarks of cancer, driving abnormal gene expression.
- These changes impact not only cancer development but also tumor immunogenicity and anti-tumor immunity.
- Understanding these links is crucial for novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the intricate relationship between epigenetic regulation and tumor immune cell function.
- To highlight the role of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin structure in tumor immunogenicity.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic processes in cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of key epigenetic mechanisms: DNA methylation, histone post-translational modification, and chromatin remodeling.
- Analysis of how these epigenetic changes influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cell activity.
- Examination of epigenetic research methodologies.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic dysregulation significantly impacts tumor immunogenicity and the tumor microenvironment.
- Abnormal epigenetic processes like DNA methylation and histone modifications alter immune cell function.
- Small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic modulators show promise in boosting anti-tumor immunity.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic therapy holds significant potential for enhancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy.
- Combining epigenetic modulators with immunotherapy requires careful consideration of complex interactions.
- Further research is needed to optimize combination treatment plans for improved patient outcomes.
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