Emerging Role of Epigenetic Modifiers in Breast Cancer Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Response

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Richard Sean Lee, Emory University; Kirti Sad, Emory University; Dorelle V. Fawwal, Emory University; Jennifer Spangle, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2023-08-01
• Publisher: MDPI
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © 2023 by the authors.
• License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/cancers15154005
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: Cancers
• Volume: 15
• Issue: 15
• Grant/Funding Information: This research was funded by the National Institutes of Health, grant number R00CA204601, to J.M.S.
• Keywords: chromatin modification; histone acetylation; histone methylation; breast cancer; HAT; epigenetics; HDAC
• Research Categories: Biology, Genetics; Health Sciences, Oncology

Abstract

Breast cancer pathogenesis, treatment, and patient outcomes are shaped by tumor-intrinsic genomic alterations that divide breast tumors into molecular subtypes. These molecular subtypes often dictate viable therapeutic interventions and, ultimately, patient outcomes. However, heterogeneity in therapeutic response may be a result of underlying epigenetic features that may further stratify breast cancer patient outcomes. In this review, we examine non-genetic mechanisms that drive functional changes to chromatin in breast cancer to contribute to cell and tumor fitness and highlight how epigenetic activity may inform the therapeutic response. We conclude by providing perspectives on the future of therapeutic targeting of epigenetic enzymes, an approach that holds untapped potential to improve breast cancer patient outcomes.