The tumor epigenome - from gene regulation via tumor classification to therapy target

Epigenetic control mechanisms are essential for the coordination of numerous cellular processes, including differentiation and development as well as for the adaptation of gene activity according to environmental conditions. In particular, tumor diseases are often accompanied by comprehensive alterations in the epigenome. These alterations are frequently characteristic either for the tumor entity, the tumor state, the clinical response of the tumor to an anti-cancer therapy or the individual prognosis of the patient. After a brief introduction into epigenetic marks and their impact for cancer, this article will focus on alterations in the tumor epigenome and their value for individualized medicine.