Epigenetics

Epigenetics encompasses heritable changes in gene expression occurring without DNA sequence alterations, mediated through chemical modifications including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodelling that regulate which genes are transcriptionally active or silenced. Epigenetic dysregulation contributes to diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic conditions, making epigenetic mechanisms attractive therapeutic targets.

The biopharmaceutical industry pursues epigenetic therapeutics and incorporates epigenetic understanding throughout development. Epigenetic drugs including DNA methyltransferase inhibitors and histone deacetylase inhibitors have achieved regulatory approval for haematological malignancies. Drug discovery screens compounds modulating epigenetic enzymes. Biomarker development employs epigenetic signatures including methylation patterns for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response prediction. Manufacturing cell line stability monitoring includes epigenetic characterisation ensuring consistent productivity. As technologies advance enabling genome-wide epigenetic profiling at single-cell resolution, therapeutic opportunities expand through next-generation modulators with improved selectivity.