Spatial biology in cancer epigenetics

Eva Crespo-García1, Manel Esteller1,2,3,4

  • 1Cancer Epigenetics Group, Sant Pau Research Institute (IRSantPau), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

Molecular Oncology
|July 23, 2026
PubMed
Summary

Spatial epigenomics reveals gene regulation within intact tissues, overcoming limitations of bulk and single-cell sequencing. This powerful approach analyzes chromatin accessibility and modifications, offering new insights into cancer biology.

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Epigenetic Regulation01:37

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Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
X-chromosome...
Epigenetic Regulation01:46

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Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
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Cancers Originate from Somatic Mutations in a Single Cell

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Adaptive Mechanisms in Cancer Cells02:53

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Cancer cells accumulate genetic changes at an abnormally rapid rate due to the defects in the DNA repair mechanisms. From an evolutionary perspective, such genetic instability is advantageous for cancer development. Mutant cell lines accumulate a series of beneficial mutations that contribute to their progression into cancer.
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