Exploring the role of epigenetic alterations and non-coding RNAs in melanoma pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Melanoma is a rare but highly lethal type of skin cancer whose incidence is increasing globally. Melanoma is characterized by high resistance to therapy and relapse. Despite significant advances in the treatment of metastatic melanoma, many patients experience progression due to resistance mechanisms. Epigenetic changes, including alterations in chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA rearrangements, contribute to neoplastic transformation, metastasis, and drug resistance in melanoma. This review summarizes current research on epigenetic mechanisms in melanoma and their therapeutic potential. Specifically, we discuss the role of histone acetylation and methylation in gene expression regulation and melanoma pathobiology, as well as the promising results of HDAC inhibitors and DNMT inhibitors in clinical trials. We also examine the dysregulation of non-coding RNA, particularly miRNAs, and their potential as targets for melanoma therapy. Finally, we highlight the challenges of epigenetic therapies, such as the complexity of epigenetic mechanisms combined with immunotherapies and the need for combination therapies to overcome drug resistance. In conclusion, epigenetic changes may be reversible, and the use of combination therapy between traditional therapies and epigenetically targeted drugs could be a viable solution to reverse the increasing number of patients who develop treatment resistance or even prevent it. While several clinical trials are underway, the complexity of these mechanisms presents a significant challenge to the development of effective therapies. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of epigenetic mechanisms in melanoma and to develop more effective and targeted therapies.