Epigenetic Modifications in Drugs and Diseases

Epigenetic modifications are in the spotlight of current research. Chemical modifications on the DNA, RNA and histone were summarized as epigenetics, adding significant complexity to the functions and regulation of biomolecules. DNA modifications were proposed as a carrier of epigenetic information early on, with subsequent work revealing that histone modifications, chromatin accessibility, noncoding RNAs, and RNA modifications are also important for this process. The rapid development of epigenetics has made it a cutting-edged field of research. In recent years, researchers have achieved a wealth of evidence on the epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-translational mechanisms of drugs and diseases, advancing our understanding of the relevant molecular mechanisms, regulatory functions, and interactions with other biological processes. Abnormalities in epigenetic modifications lead to defects in cell function, leading to various genetic and degenerative diseases. However, the functions and mechanisms of epigenetic modifications during drug use and diseases remain unelucidated. In this special issue through a collection of research and review articles we will highlight the latest developments towards a comprehensive understanding of epigenetic modifications.

To further our understanding in this critical area of biomedical research, we invite contributions that focus on a range of relevant issues, including but not limited to:

• Methods to detect or modulate epigenetic modifications, such as profiling of epitranscriptome by web-lab and dry-lab methods and programmable editing of RNA modifications;
• Identifying RNA modification regulators post-drug treatment and their role in gene expression regulation;
• Epitranscriptome profiles associated with disease and phenotype;
• The application of RNA modifications and/or their regulators as disease biomarkers;
• The functions and mechanisms of epigenetic modifications in various diseases.