Promoter hypermethylation as a biomarker in prostate adenocarcinoma

Abstract

There is increasing evidence that DNA methylation is a critical source of gene regulation. In addition, interindividual differences in DNA methylation status in cancer related genes are associated with risk and progression of prostate cancer. Therefore, DNA methylation in cancer related genes can be potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for prostate cancer.In this chapter, current information on frequently hypermethylated genes associated with the carcinogenesis and progression of prostate cancer was updated. The potential biological role of hypermethylated genes in prostate cancer is discussed. These findings may provide new information of the pathogenesis, the exciting potential to be predictive and to provide strategies for personalized treatment of prostate cancer.