Epigenetic Modifications in Osteosarcoma: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary bone cancer in children and adolescents, characterized by metastasis and chemotherapy resistance.
• Genetic mutations and aneuploidy are known drivers, but epigenetic modifications are increasingly recognized as crucial in OS pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on the role of epigenetic regulation in osteosarcoma development.
• To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic mechanisms in OS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on osteosarcoma epigenetics.
• Analysis of epigenetic modifications including DNA/RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs.
• Examination of current and potential therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• Epigenetic alterations independently contribute to OS initiation, progression, metastasis, and immune evasion.
• Aberrant epigenetic mechanisms modulate oncogene expression and gene dysregulation.
• Targeting epigenetic pathways can reactivate tumor suppressor genes.

Conclusions:

• Epigenetic dysregulation is a significant driver of osteosarcoma.
• Emerging epigenetic drugs show potential for clinical utility in OS treatment.
• Personalized therapies integrating epigenetic insights and AI-driven biomarkers could improve patient outcomes.