Prostate cancer epigenetics - from pathophysiology to clinical application
Vera Constâncio1,2, João Lobo1,3,4, José Pedro Sequeira1,2
1Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/CI-IPOP@RISE (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal.
Nature Reviews. Urology
|January 17, 2025
Summary
Epigenetics significantly impacts prostate cancer development and progression. Further research and clinical trials aim to integrate these epigenetic findings into patient treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a complex disease driven by multiple molecular factors.
- Epigenetics, the study of gene expression changes without DNA alteration, is a key factor in prostate cancer.
- Technological advancements over 50 years have revealed epigenetics' role in all disease stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical roles of epigenetic mechanisms in prostate cancer.
- To discuss the challenges in translating epigenetic research into clinical practice.
- To emphasize the potential of ongoing research and clinical trials in integrating epigenetics into prostate cancer management.
Main Methods:
- Review of technological advancements in epigenome characterization.
- Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms in prostate cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, castration resistance, and neuroendocrine transdifferentiation.
- Examination of the translation of preclinical epigenetic findings to clinical application.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial throughout the prostate cancer spectrum.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding epigenetic roles in prostate cancer pathophysiology.
- Translating preclinical epigenetic discoveries into clinical practice remains a challenge.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic alterations are integral to prostate cancer.
- Further research and biomarker-driven clinical trials are essential for clinical integration.
- Integrating epigenetics into prostate cancer management holds promise for improved patient outcomes.
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