EVALUATING EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN EPIGENETIC MODIFICATION AND OVARIAN CANCER

Abstract

Epigenetic modification is a way in which gene expression can be regulated without actually changing or mutating the gene sequences themselves, and it is often associated with changes in expression that lead to cancer development and progression. This review focuses specifically on ovarian cancer and how epigenetic modifications have been associated with the progression of the disease. Multiple types of epigenetic modification, including DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and RNA methylation have been associated with ovarian cancer. These associations present multiple potential targets for new screening protocols and treatments of ovarian cancer, which has historically been associated with late diagnosis and poor outcomes. However, pre-clinical and clinical research in these areas has yet to show clinically actionable results, indicating a need for further research before epigenetic-based screenings and treatments for ovarian cancer can be used in humans.