Abstract 1053: Potential utility of DNA methytlation as a biomarker for prediction of ulcerative colitis associated colitic cancer (UCAC)

Progress in epigenetic research of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a nonspecific chronic disease that may relapse again and again and be associated with the risk of cancer. At present, the precise pathogenesis and etiology of UC are unclear. Research suggests that epigenetic modifications can mediate the mutual influence between susceptibility genes for ulcerative colitis and the internal and external environment of the body, and thus play an important part in the initial and sustainable development of UC. Regulation of expression of related genes by epigenetic modifications is closely linked to colonic mucosa immunity and defense in UC patients. In this paper, we will summarize the epigenetic mechanisms that may influence the pathogenesis of UC and discuss the role of epigenetic modifications in the pathogenesis of this disease.