New Insights in Epigenetics of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the liver, characterized by a high mortality rate. Genetic and epigenetic abnormalities are frequently observed in HCC. Epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA expression, are significant in the development and metastasis of HCC. This summary outlines the epigenetic changes involved in the progression of HCC, as well as the epigenetic modifications associated with HCC treatment and the progress of HCC epigenetic biomarkers. Especially, the potential value of the combination therapy strategy of epigenetic alteration inhibitors with cytotoxic and immunotherapy drugs is highlighted. Epigenetic abnormalities, distinguished from genetic mutations by their inherent reversibility, have the potential to become an ideal target for small molecule drugs (epigenetic drugs) in the treatment of HCC. This study aims to offer novel insights to clinical physicians for the development of rational clinical strategies, enhancement of overall patient survival, and prediction of treatment outcomes.