Epigenetic changes before birth may be a key factor in lifetime risk of cancer, according to a study in mice, reported in the journal Nature Cancer.
The study was led by researchers at the Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. In the study, laboratory mice were cloned to have reduced levels of a gene called Trim28. During development, mice divided into one of two epigenetic states.
One of the epigenetic states was associated with increased lifetime risk of cancer, largely solid tumours.
The second group of mice had reduced lifetime risk overall – but those with this state were more likely to develop blood cancer if they develop cancer.
The research was partly funded by the European Research Council.
Dr Andrew Pospisilik, who co-led the study, said: “Because most cancers occur later in life and are understood as diseases of mutation, or genetics, there hasn’t been a deep focus on how development might shape cancer risk. Our findings change that.
“Our identification of these two epigenetically different states open the door to an entirely new world of study into the underpinnings of cancer.”
Study co-leader Dr Ilaria Panzeri said: “Bad luck doesn’t fully explain why some people develop cancer and others don’t. Most importantly, bad luck cannot be targeted for treatment. Epigenetics, on the other hand, can be targeted. Our findings show that cancer’s roots may start during the sensitive period of development, offering a new perspective to study the disease and potential new options for diagnosis and treatment.”
Source:
Panzeri I, Fagnocchi L, Apostle S, Tompkins M, Wolfrum E, Madaj Z, Hostetter G, Liu Y, Schaefer K, Yang CH, Bergsma A, Drougard A, Dror E, PERMUTE, Chandler DP, Schramek D, Triche TJ Jr, Pospisilik JA. (2025) “TRIM28-dependent developmental heterogeneity determines cancer susceptibility through distinct epigenetic states.” Nature Cancer, 24 January 2025, doi: 10.1038/s43018-024-00900-3.
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43018-024-00900-3
Disclaimer: The news stories shared on this site are used as a way to inform our members and followers of updates and relevant information happening in Haematology. The BSH does not endorse the content of news items from external sources, and is not in a position to verify the findings, accuracy or the source of any studies mentioned. Any medical or drugs information is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes.
News service provided by Englemed News.