Epigenetics in cancer: from mechanisms to precision medicine

Abstract

Epigenetics encompasses heritable yet reversible changes in gene expression that occur without alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. Through coordinated regulation of DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and higher‐order chromatin organization, epigenetic mechanisms shape chromatin accessibility and transcriptional programs that govern cellular identity, plasticity, and tissue homeostasis. In cancer, disruption of the epigenetic landscape has emerged as a hallmark of tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. Unlike genetic alterations, epigenetic abnormalities are potentially reversible, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Recent advances in next‐generation sequencing, single‐cell and spatial multi‐omics, chromatin profiling technologies, and computational biology have transformed our understanding of cancer epigenomes while accelerating the development of epigenetic therapies targeting diverse chromatin regulatory pathways. This Thematic Issue on Epigenetics in Cancer brings together leading experts to review recent conceptual and technological advances that are reshaping the field. Covering topics ranging from spatial and single‐cell epigenomics to chromatin regulation, tumor plasticity, and emerging therapeutic strategies, the collection highlights how fundamental discoveries are driving translational innovation and precision oncology. We hope these articles will provide a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians while inspiring future advances in cancer epigenetics and epigenetic therapeutics.