Epigenetic-Based Cancer Therapy

Epigenetics involves the study of heritable changes in the regulation of gene activity and expression that are not dependent on gene sequence. Main mechanisms of epigenetic modifications are DNA methylation, Histone modification and Nucleosome positioning. Several studies have shown that these modifications are related to cancer initiation, progression or tumor metastasis. In contrast to genetic mutations, most epigenetic modifications may be reversible and preventable. Therefore, the resetting of aberrant epigenetic states in neoplastic cells is an expanding therapeutic approach to treat or prevent cancer.
Methods and Materials: The current study is a kind of review study in which the crucial data have been collected; in addition, key words have been used systematically to search for related articles in reputable site.
It is now clear that the disorders of epigenetic mechanisms can affect and compound with oncogenic mutation and cause to promote tumor growth. So, the management of aberrant epigenetic states as a way to target the formation and progression of cancer is a logical and effective therapeutic approach. An understanding of the link between epigenetic deregulation and cancer is applicable to prognosis as well as treatment.
Discussion and It seems that many aspects of epigenetics are still unknown; moreover, various studies are ongoing to explore other epigenetic mechanisms, their relationship with each other as well as the development , and progression of various diseases especially cancer.