| Epigenetics is the
study of the regulation of gene expression through chemical,
non-mutational changes in DNA structure. The theory of
epigenetics in cancer pathogenesis is that non-mutational
changes to DNA can lead to alterations in gene expression.
Normally, oncogenes are silent, for example, because of DNA
methylation.
Loss of that methylation can induce the aberrant expression of
oncogenes, leading to cancer pathogenesis. Known mechanisms of
epigenetic change include DNA methylation, and methylation or
acetylation of histone proteins bound to chromosomal DNA at
specific locations. Classes of medications, known as HDAC
inhibitors and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, can re-regulate
the epigenetic signaling in the cancer cell.
Pathophysiology Oncogenes >>
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Cancer
Classification
1. Nomenclature
2. Adult cancers
3. Childhood cancers
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis
1. Investigation
2. Biopsy
Treatment
1. Surgery
2. Radiation therapy
3. Chemotherapy
4. Targeted therapies
5. Immunotherapy
6. Hormonal therapy
7. Symptom control
8. Complementary and alternative
9. Treatment trials
Prognosis
1. Emotional impact
Causes
1. Chemical carcinogens
2. Ionizing radiation &
Infectious diseases
3. Hormonal imbalances
& Immune system dysfunction
4. Heredity & Other causes
Pathophysiology
1. Epigenetics
2. Oncogenes
3. Tumor suppressor genes
4. Cancer cell biology
4.1 Clonal evolution
4.2 Biological properties of cancer cells
Prevention
1. Modifiable ("lifestyle") risk factors
2. Diet
3. Vitamins
4. Chemoprevention
5. Genetic testing
6. Vaccination
7. Screening
Epidemiology
History
Research |
