Epigenetic mechanisms involved in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) typically develops in the context of chronic liver disease, where prolonged hepatocyte exposure to inflammation drives the synergistic accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations. Epigenetic regulation encompasses multiple mechanisms that govern the transcription machinery accessibility to DNA. This process is regulated by the addition and removal of covalent marks on chromatin, which can either affect DNA-histone interactions or serve as scaffolds for other proteins, among other mechanisms. Recent research has revealed that epigenetic alterations can disrupt chromatin homeostasis, redirecting transcriptional regulation to favour cancer-promoting states. Consequently, these alterations play a pivotal role in the acquisition of cancer hallmarks and provide insights into several biological processes involved in hepatocarcinogenesis. This review highlights the key epigenetic mechanisms underlying the development, progression and dissemination of HCC, with a particular focus on DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications. This knowledge is relevant for guiding the development of innovative therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulators.