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World J Gastroenterol. Jan 14, 2014; 20(2): 333-345
Published online Jan 14, 2014. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i2.333
Epigenetics in hepatocellular carcinoma: An update and future therapy perspectives
Li Ma, Mei-Sze Chua, Ourania Andrisani, Samuel So
Li Ma, Mei-Sze Chua, Samuel So, Asian Liver Center and Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
Li Ma, Ourania Andrisani, Department of Basic Medical Science and Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
Author contributions: Ma L performed the literature search, wrote the first draft of the manuscript and approved the final version; Chua MS, Andrisani O and So S edited the final draft of the manuscript and approved the final version.
Correspondence to: Dr. Mei-Sze Chua, PhD, Asian Liver Center and Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Rd, MSLS Building, Stanford, CA 94305, United States. mchua@stanford.edu
Telephone: +1-650-7243525 Fax: +1-650-7230006
Received: April 29, 2013
Revised: January 1, 2014
Accepted: January 5, 2014
Published online: January 14, 2014
Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the predominant form of adult liver malignancies, is a global health concern. Its dismal prognosis has prompted recent significant advances in the understanding of its etiology and pathogenesis. The deregulation of epigenetic mechanisms, which maintain heritable gene expression changes and chromatin organization, is implicated in the development of multiple cancers, including HCC. This review summarizes the current knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of HCC, with an emphasis on HCC mediated by chronic hepatitis B virus infection. This review also discusses the encouraging outcomes and lessons learnt from epigenetic therapies for hematological and other solid cancers, and highlights the future potential of similar therapies in the treatment of HCC.

Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma, Epigenetics, DNA methylation, Histone modification, miRNA, lncRNA

Core tip: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern; molecularly targeted therapeutics remains limited to sorafenib. New targets and drugs are urgently needed to broaden the limited treatment options for HCC. Many lines of evidence suggest that epigenetics is associated with the initiation and development of HCC. Here, we review the current state of knowledge on epigenetic deregulation in HCC, and potential therapies that can be exploited for interventions.