The epigenomics of cancer

Cell. 2007 Feb 23;128(4):683-92. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2007.01.029.

Abstract

Aberrant gene function and altered patterns of gene expression are key features of cancer. Growing evidence shows that acquired epigenetic abnormalities participate with genetic alterations to cause this dysregulation. Here, we review recent advances in understanding how epigenetic alterations participate in the earliest stages of neoplasia, including stem/precursor cell contributions, and discuss the growing implications of these advances for strategies to control cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / genetics
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / genetics*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / genetics*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / genetics*
  • Gene Silencing / physiology
  • Genetic Therapy / methods
  • Genetic Therapy / trends
  • Humans
  • Mutation / genetics
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Stem Cells / metabolism