EPIGENETIC REPROGRAMMING IN CANCER: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF DNA METHYLATION AND HISTONE MODIFICATIONS IN TUMORIGENESIS

Abstract

Epigenetic modifications are key regulators in maintaining appropriate gene expression and cellular identity. DNA methylation and histone modification are epigenetic modifications that actively participate in tumorigenesis through the modification of chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activity. Dysregulation of these processes can thus lead to carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and resistance to therapy. This review will focus on DNA methylation and histone modification and their roles in cancer, including mechanisms, consequences on gene expression, and therapeutic approaches. Insights into epigenetic remodeling occurring in tumors may therefore serve as the basis for developing novel epigenetic therapies to reverse aberrant modifications and restore normal gene functioning. Gastrointestinal cancer development follows an important trajectory because of specific epigenetic reprogramming mechanisms that cause DNA methylation and histone changes. The modification process creates prominent changes in gene expression patterns of cancer-related elements.  Gastrointestinal cancers exhibit interesting epigenetic characteristics that involve DNA hypermethylation in IGCs and global hypomethylation in their genome.  The gastrointestinal malignancies experience erroneous gene activation and gene dysfunction when histone modifications become abnormal.  Research should emphasize that DNA methylation functions jointly with histone modifications during molecular processes.  Various research proves these two molecular forces cooperate to affect chromatin accessibility and silence in stomach cancer patients.