Epigenetic mechanisms in breast cancer: pathogenesis, therapeutic targets, and clinical implications

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors affecting women worldwide. Although early-stage breast cancer treatments often result in favorable outcomes, recurrence and metastasis remain significant clinical challenges. Recent advancements in molecular biology and genetics have greatly enhanced our understanding of breast cancer. Epigenetics has emerged as a critical factor in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of breast cancer. Epigenetics refers to heritable changes in gene expression caused by chemical modifications that do not alter the DNA sequence, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation. Currently, numerous epigenetic drugs have been utilized in the clinical treatment and research of breast cancer. This review examines the relationship between epigenetics and breast cancer to better understand its role in pathogenesis and potential for novel therapeutic strategies.