Epigenomics – A Bird’s Eye Perspective on the Genome

The constant interplay between DNA methylation, histone modifications and small interfering RNAs – including micro-RNA – provides the basis for establishing a cellular epigenomic network. Its occurrence depends on various endogenic and exogenic factors and is specific to a given type of cell and during a precise period of time. Thus, an epigenomic network is where phenomena known for a long time as »tissue and time specific gene expression« – both necessary for proper cell functioning – are manifested. A cancer cell is an excellent example of disturbed epigenomic network. Because of the reversible nature of the epigenomic process, the network can be partially or fully restored by the use of epigenomic drugs, to date, the inhibitors of DNA methylation and histone deacetylases. The possible intervention on the epigenome offers a very powerful tool in different fileds, including understanding disease pathophysiology, its treatment and, very significantly, its prevention.