EPIGENETICS AND CANCER: THE INFLUENCE OF POST-TRANSLATIONAL HISTONE MODIFICATIONS IN CARCINOGENESIS

Cancer is a global concern, with alarming statistics on incidence and mortality. Genetic and epigenetic alterations play fundamental roles in carcinogenesis, influencing gene expression and genome stability. This study aimed to elucidate the main epigenetic modifications of histones related to cancer and the epigenetic inhibitors used as therapeutic methods. Using a narrative review approach, articles published between 2014 and 2024 were selected to discuss the key aspects related to the topic. Post-translational modifications of histones, such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation, were examined concerning cancer development and progression. Mutations and dysregulation of acetylases and deacetylases have been observed in various cancers, highlighting their role in carcinogenesis and as potential therapeutic targets. Histone methylation, regulated by methyltransferases and demethylases, affects gene expression and, along with changes in DNA methylation levels, contributes to tumor progression. Additionally, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation of histones are dynamic processes that regulate chromatin structure and gene expression; dysregulation of these processes has been implicated in cancer development and progression, underscoring their importance in carcinogenesis. Since epigenetic alterations are reversible, different epigenetic drugs have been developed and applied in cancer treatment. Given that histone epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in oncogenesis, influencing gene expression and tumor progression, understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies against cancer.