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Review
. 2024 Sep 10;16(1):123.
doi: 10.1186/s13148-024-01740-9.

Epigenetics and immunotherapy in colorectal cancer: progress and promise

Tianjiao Dang #  1   2   3 , Xin Guan #  1   2   3 , Luying Cui  1   2   3 , Yuli Ruan  1   2   3 , Zhuo Chen  1 , Haoyi Zou  1   2   3 , Ya Lan  1 , Chao Liu  4   5   6 , Yanqiao Zhang  7   8   9
Affiliations
Review

Epigenetics and immunotherapy in colorectal cancer: progress and promise

Tianjiao Dang et al. Clin Epigenetics. .

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor with the third and second highest incidence and mortality rates among various malignant tumors. Despite significant advancements in the present therapy for CRC, the majority of CRC cases feature proficient mismatch repair/microsatellite stability and have no response to immunotherapy. Therefore, the search for new treatment options holds immense importance in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC. In recent years, clinical research on immunotherapy combined with epigenetic therapy has gradually increased, which may bring hope for these patients. This review explores the role of epigenetic regulation in exerting antitumor effects through its action on immune cell function and highlights the potential of certain epigenetic genes that can be used as markers of immunotherapy to predict therapeutic efficacy. We also discuss the application of epigenetic drug sensitization immunotherapy to develop new treatment options combining epigenetic therapy and immunotherapy.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Colorectal cancer; Epigenetic regulation; Immunotherapy.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Epigenetic modifications
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Epigenetic regulation shapes the role of the immune microenvironment in CRC
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
EZH2i reshapes the TME to enhance the antitumor immune effect
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Epigenes influence the immune response through endogenous interferon response pathways, immunogenicity and genome stability
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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