What Role Does Promoter Methylation Play in Cancer Development?
Promoter methylation is a key mechanism in the initiation and progression of cancer. For instance, hypermethylation of the promoter regions of tumor suppressor genes like p16INK4a, BRCA1, and MLH1 leads to their silencing, which can result in uncontrolled cell division and accumulation of genetic mutations. Additionally, global hypomethylation can activate oncogenes and destabilize the genome, further facilitating malignant transformation.
