Epigenetic alterations in the breast: Implications for breast cancer detection, prognosis and treatment

Amy M. Dworkin, Tim H.M. Huang, Amanda Ewart Toland

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

140 Scopus citations

Abstract

Epigenetic alterations of the genome such as DNA promoter methylation and chromatin remodeling play an important role in tumorigenesis. Recent findings indicate epigenetic modifications as key factors in breast carcinogenesis. These modifications are quite appealing as targets for preventative care and therapeutics because of their potential for reversal. Future medical care for breast cancer patients will likely depend upon a better understanding of the roles epigenetic modifications play in carcinogenesis. Here, we discuss the importance of epigenetics in breast cancer detection, prognosis, and therapy with an emphasis on mechanisms and epigenetic contributions to field cancerization effects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)165-171
Number of pages7
JournalSeminars in Cancer Biology
Volume19
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2009
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Breast cancer
  • ER
  • Epigenetics
  • Field cancerization

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cancer Research

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