What are the Main Types of Epigenetic Modifications?
The primary types of epigenetic modifications involved in cancer are:
1. DNA Methylation: The addition of methyl groups to the DNA molecule, usually at CpG islands, which often results in gene silencing. Abnormal DNA methylation patterns are a hallmark of cancer.
2. Histone Modifications: Chemical changes to histone proteins around which DNA winds. These modifications include acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, influencing chromatin structure and gene expression.
3. Non-Coding RNAs: Small non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, play a role in gene silencing and regulation. Dysregulation of these RNAs has been implicated in various cancers.
