Despite variations in the morphology and behaviors of human body cells,
every single cell in our body is composed of identical DNA material. The variation in
cell phenotypes is a result of a specific regulatory mechanism known as epigenetics, by
which gene expression undergoes some modifications without the actual nucleotide
sequence being affected [1]. This phenomenon is accomplished through several
mechanisms, such as cytosine residue methylation, modifications of histone units, and
RNA interference. Therefore, epigenetics performs a key function in embryonic growth
and development, cellular RNA expression, gene imprinting, and silencing of females’
X chromosomes [2]. Any impairment in these mechanisms may cause various human
disorders, including cancer [3]. In carcinogenesis, defective epigenetic machinery at
several distinct levels results in abnormal cellular functions [4].
This chapter highlights epigenetics' importance in cancer development and its potential
applications for cancer treatment.
Keywords: Cancer, Epigenetics, Histone, Methylation, miRNA.
