Epigenetic modification and hepatocellular carcinoma

Epigenetics refers to steady phenotypic changes in gene expression without modifications in the genetic nucleotide sequence. Disorder of epigenetic mechanisms plays an important role in the occurrence and development of human malignant tumors including hepatocellular carcinoma. A large number of gene targets and pathways related to epigenetics were discovered. For instance, DNA methylation, histone modification and RNA regulator gene silencing were associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Exploring the abnormal epigenetics is of great significance for prevention and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.