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Updated: May 6, 2026
An Integrated Platform for Genome-wide Mapping of Chromatin States Using High-throughput ChIP-sequencing in Tumor Tissues
Published on: April 5, 2018
Epigenetic mechanisms and therapeutic targeting across diverse malignancies
Akshara Harihar1, Rithika Venkataramanan1, Marina Alice Mathew1
1Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India.
Abstract:
Genetic abnormalities cause cancer, a heterogeneous disease. These abnormalities comprise unregulated proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Transcriptional factors are altered by dysregulation, like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling, during tumor formation, progression, and resistance to therapy. These can be reversed and transmitted to subsequent generations. Consequently, tumor suppressor genes can be deactivated without altering DNA sequences. Epigenetic markers have been detected in carcinomas, sarcomas, hematological malignancies, and organ-specific tumors, influencing diagnostic accuracy, prognosis assessment, and treatment strategies. Several epigenetic drugs have been developed due to recent advances in epigenetic research. These include DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors and novel modulators focusing on RNA methylation and chromatin regulation. These pharmaceuticals may facilitate normal gene expression restoration, enhance the sensitivity of treatment-resistant malignancies and improve the efficacy of conventional and immunotherapeutic interventions. Significant challenges, such as tumor heterogeneity, limited target specificity, and off-target toxicity, continue to impede widespread clinical application; others are less challenging. The integration of comprehensive epigenetic profiling with precision oncology frameworks presents transformative opportunities to tailor treatment programs, initiate therapy sooner and enhance long-term patient outcomes. Increasing cancer's epigenome knowledge has led to increased interest in developing personalized, mechanism-based treatments addressing cancer's dynamic and adaptive nature.
Insights
Epigenetic alterations drive cancer development and treatment resistance. New epigenetic drugs offer potential for personalized cancer therapies by restoring normal gene expression and improving treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cancer is a complex disease driven by genetic abnormalities, leading to uncontrolled cell growth, invasion, and metastasis.
- Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone alterations, play a crucial role in cancer development, progression, and therapy resistance.
- These reversible epigenetic changes can silence tumor suppressor genes without altering the DNA sequence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of epigenetic alterations in cancer.
- To discuss the development and potential of epigenetic drugs in cancer treatment.
- To highlight the integration of epigenetics with precision oncology for improved patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on cancer epigenetics and epigenetic therapies.
- Analysis of epigenetic drug classes, including DNA methyltransferase inhibitors and histone deacetylase inhibitors.
- Discussion of challenges and future directions in epigenetic cancer research.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic markers are prevalent across various cancer types, impacting diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
- Epigenetic drugs show promise in restoring normal gene expression and enhancing sensitivity to conventional and immunotherapies.
- Despite challenges like tumor heterogeneity and toxicity, epigenetic profiling integrated with precision oncology offers personalized treatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications are key drivers in cancer and represent promising therapeutic targets.
- Epigenetic therapies have the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment by enabling personalized, mechanism-based approaches.
- Further research and clinical integration of epigenetics are essential for advancing cancer care and improving patient outcomes.
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