Journal Article Review Epublish
PubMed: 40191732 DOI: 10.32604/or.2024.057231
Use of DNA methylation patterns for early detection and management of lung cancer: Are we there yet?
Oncol Res 33(4):781-793
Authors: Milica Kontic, Filip Markovic
Affiliations
- Clinic for Pulmonology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia. School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.
- Clinic for Pulmonology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.
Abstract
Detecting lung cancer early is crucial for improving survival rates, yet it remains a significant challenge due to many cases being diagnosed at advanced stages. This review aims to provide advances in epigenetics which have highlighted DNA methylation patterns as promising biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and treatment response in lung cancer. Techniques like bisulfite conversion followed by PCR, digital droplet polymerase chain reaction, and next-generation sequencing are commonly used for detecting these methylation patterns, which occur early in the cancer development process and can be detected in non-invasive samples like blood and sputum. Key genes such as SHOX2 and RASSF1A have demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity in clinical studies, making them crucial for diagnostic purposes. However, several challenges remain to be overcome before these biomarkers can be widely adopted for use in clinical practice. Standardizing the assays and validating their effectiveness are critical steps. Additionally, integrating methylation biomarkers with existing diagnostic tools could significantly enhance the accuracy of lung cancer detection, providing a more comprehensive diagnostic approach. Although progress has been made in understanding and utilizing DNA methylation patterns for lung cancer detection, more research and extensive clinical trials are necessary to fully harness their potential. These efforts will help establish the robustness of methylation patterns as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, ultimately leading to better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for lung cancer. In conclusion, DNA methylation states represent a promising avenue for advancing early detection, accurate diagnosis, and management of lung cancer.
MeSH
Lung, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Neoplasms, Biomarkers, Dna Methylation, Lung Neoplasms, Diagnosis, Research, Therapeutics, Medical Oncology, Dna