Why is it important to study epigenetics?
The epigenetics field is anticipated to contribute to understanding of the complexities of genetic regulation, cellular differentiation, embryology, aging and disease but also to allow one to systematically explore novel therapeutic avenues, ultimately leading to personalised medicine.
How does epigenetics affect breast cancer?
Additional epigenetic changes in breast cancer include genetic instability with aneuploidy and telomere erosion, which may be associated with epigenetic modifications [15]. The tumor microenvironment may also undergo epigenetic changes that regulate the transition of in situ to invasive breast cancer [16].
What targets epigenetic changes in cancer cells?
The targets of epigenetic therapy are the enzymes involved in epigenetic modifications, including HDACs, DNMTs and HDMs. Although any type of epigenetic enzyme is a potential target for epigenetic therapy, research has focused on enzymes that are less complex and well-studied.
Can fathers transfer epigenetic changes?
Can fathers transfer epigenetic changes? Fathers could transfer epigenetic changes to their children, and possibly grandchildren through changes to sperm around the time of conception, although most of our current evidence for this comes from studies in mice and rats.
Is breast cancer genetic or epigenetic?
Breast cancer is induced by the accumulation of altered gene regulation. Besides genetic mutations, epigenetics mechanisms have an important role in breast cancer tumorigenesis.
What genetic or epigenetic changes have been observed in cancer cells?
Epigenetic changes are present in all human cancers and are now known to cooperate with genetic alterations to drive the cancer phenotype. These changes involve DNA methylation, histone modifiers and readers, chromatin remodelers, microRNAs, and other components of chromatin.