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Epigenetic mechanisms in non-small cell lung cancer therapy and chemoresistance

Ying Xu1, Yang Meng2, Yongfeng Xu3

  • 1Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.

Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta. Reviews on Cancer
|May 30, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic modifications drive chemoresistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Targeting these epigenetic changes offers a promising strategy to improve NSCLC treatment outcomes and patient survival.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, with chemoresistance significantly limiting treatment efficacy.
  • Chemoresistance in NSCLC contributes to cancer recurrence and metastasis, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are increasingly recognized for their role in cancer progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the role of epigenetic regulators in the development of chemoresistance in NSCLC.
  • To explore the intricate relationship between specific epigenetic modifications and chemoresistance in NSCLC.
  • To discuss the clinical and translational potential of targeting epigenetic alterations for improved NSCLC therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epigenetic mechanisms in cancer.
  • Analysis of studies focusing on epigenetic modifications and chemoresistance in NSCLC.
  • Synthesis of findings on epigenetic regulators and their impact on drug response.

Main Results:

  • Various epigenetic regulators, such as DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases, significantly influence chemoresistance in NSCLC.
  • Distinct epigenetic patterns are associated with differential responses to chemotherapy in NSCLC patients.
  • Epigenetic modulation can reverse or overcome chemoresistance, offering therapeutic avenues.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic mechanisms are critical determinants of chemoresistance in NSCLC.
  • Targeting epigenetic modifications presents a promising strategy to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy for NSCLC.
  • Further research into epigenetic therapies holds potential to improve survival rates and quality of life for NSCLC patients.
Keywords:
ChemoresistanceEpigeneticsMechanismMolecular targetNon-small cell lung cancer

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