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Updated: Jan 17, 2026
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Repressing Gene Transcription by Redirecting Cellular Machinery with Chemical Epigenetic Modifiers
Published on: September 20, 2018
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An Epigenetic Perspective of Gene Expression: The Regulatory Tools
Abigail Person1, Andrew J Fritz2, Emory Pacht1
1University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
Critical Reviews in Eukaryotic Gene Expression
|September 19, 2025
Summary
Epigenetic regulation guides gene expression for essential biological functions. Dysregulation of this process is linked to diseases like cancer, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Epigenetic control, alongside DNA information, directs gene expression for vital biological processes.
- This regulation influences phenotype, proliferation, growth, metabolism, cell survival, and immune responses.
- Epigenetic mechanisms include histone modifications, DNA methylation, and chromatin organization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of epigenetic regulation in biological processes.
- To investigate the link between epigenetic compromise and disease, particularly cancer.
- To highlight the potential of epigenetic targeting for cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on epigenetic mechanisms and gene expression.
- Analysis of the functional consequences of epigenetic dysregulation.
- Evaluation of epigenetic targeting strategies in preclinical and clinical contexts.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic regulation is crucial for normal cellular functions and organismal development.
- Compromised epigenetic control is associated with the initiation and progression of various diseases, including cancer.
- Epigenetic alterations provide specific targets for therapeutic intervention.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are fundamental to gene expression and cellular function.
- Aberrant epigenetic regulation is a key factor in disease pathogenesis.
- Targeting epigenetic pathways offers a promising strategy for developing novel cancer therapies with improved specificity.
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