From modification to malignancy: Bridging acetylation mechanisms and therapeutic innovations in melanoma (Review)

Jingwen Wu1, Xuxia Cai1, Zimo Zhu1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Skin Research Institute of Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China.

Oncology Reports
|November 14, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Acetylation, a key epigenetic regulator, plays a crucial role in melanoma development and drug resistance. Targeting acetylation pathways offers promising new therapeutic strategies for this aggressive skin cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer known for treatment resistance.
  • Epigenetic modifications, particularly acetylation, are increasingly recognized as key drivers of melanoma.
  • Acetylation influences critical cellular processes like proliferation, autophagy, apoptosis, and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of acetylation in melanoma pathogenesis and progression.
  • To explore acetylation as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma.
  • To examine acetylation networks involved in mediating resistance to cancer therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on acetylation in melanoma.
  • Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms in melanoma.
  • Investigation of acetylation-associated biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

  • Acetylation significantly impacts melanoma cell proliferation, survival, and spread.
  • Acetylation patterns are linked to resistance against conventional melanoma treatments.
  • Specific acetylation modifications are potential biomarkers and targets for novel therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Acetylation is a critical regulatory mechanism in melanoma.
  • Targeting acetylation pathways presents a promising avenue for developing new melanoma treatments.
  • Understanding acetylation networks is vital for overcoming therapy resistance in melanoma.

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