Epigenetics and Cancer: Understanding How Genetic Regulation Beyond DNA Sequencing Influences Tumor Growth, Metastasis, Drug Resistance, and Therapy Response in Precision Medicine
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Cancer is driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations that regulate tumor progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone alterations, and non-coding RNA regulation, influence gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Aberrant DNA methylation, histone remodeling, and dysregulated non-coding RNAs contribute to tumor heterogeneity, immune evasion, and drug resistance. Epigenetic mechanisms also drive epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and stromal remodeling, facilitating metastasis. Epigenetic biomarkers are being explored for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection, while therapies targeting DNA methylation, histone,modifications, and RNA-based mechanisms show promise. However, challenges remain in specificity, resistance, and multi-omics integration. Future directions include CRISPR-based epigenome editing, AI-driven biomarker discovery, and personalized epigenetic therapies, advancing precision oncology and improving patient outcomes.
Author: Yash Srivastav1, Rihan Ahmad2, Pradeep Kumar Lakshminaryana Murthy3, Manisha4, Anil Kumar5, Nadipudi Sundar Praveen6, Sree Rama Chandra Murthy Goud7, Manorama8, Chinchole Pratik*9
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6912009406
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