Cell-free circulating epimarks in cancer monitoring

Abstract

Cancer numbers increasing, cases heterogeneity and the drug resistance emergence have pushed scientists to search for innovative solutions for patients and epimutations can be one. Methylated DNA, modified nucleosomes and noncoding RNAs are found in all cells, including tumor cells. They are intracellular actors but also have intercellular communication roles, being released in extracellular environment and in different body fluids. Here, we reviewed current literature on the use of these blood circulating epimarks in cancer monitoring. What stands out is that epimarkers must be considered as ‘real time’ images of the tumor, and can be isolated without invasive methods. In the future, the real challenge lies in the development of specific, sensitive, fast and clinically applicable detection and analysis methods of epimarkers.