Epigenetic Regulation of Higher-Order Chromatin Structure (HOCS) and Its Implication in Human Diseases.
Publication/Presentation Date
1-31-2026
Abstract
Higher-order chromatin structures (HOCS) are fundamental to genome organization, gene regulation, and cellular homeostasis. This review examines the epigenetic mechanisms shaping HOCS, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and RNA-based regulatory processes. We also discuss the role of architectural proteins in maintaining chromatin topology while allowing dynamic changes to chromatin structure, thereby influencing gene expression. Growing evidence indicates that disruptions in HOCS contribute to a diverse array of human diseases, including cancer, aging-related disorders, and congenital abnormalities, primarily through aberrant gene regulation. We further discuss the concept of distinct genomic areas, in which specific chromatin regions orchestrate three-dimensional (3D) genome dynamics, positioning them as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. By emphasizing chromatin architecture on a global scale rather than at the level of individual genes, this review underscores its emerging relevance to precision medicine. Finally, we synthesize current technical advances, outline future directions for leveraging chromatin topology in disease diagnosis and treatment, and highlight key biological insights to reshape our understanding of genome function.
Volume
18
Issue
3
ISSN
2072-6694
Published In/Presented At
Ladel, L., Sailo, B., Das, P., Lin, E. S., Tan, W. Y., Chhoda, A., Tang, H., Ang-Olson, O., He, L., John, N., Kratz, J. D., Sharma, A., & Ahuja, N. (2026). Epigenetic Regulation of Higher-Order Chromatin Structure (HOCS) and Its Implication in Human Diseases. Cancers, 18(3), 483. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18030483
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
41681953
Department(s)
Fellows and Residents
Document Type
Article