Title:Cell-Free Circulating Epigenomic Signatures: Non-Invasive Biomarker for Cardiovascular and Other Age-Related Chronic Diseases
VOLUME: 23 ISSUE: 8
Author(s):Arpit Bhargava, Naveen Kumar Khare, Neha Bunkar, Koel Chaudhury, Kailash Chand Pandey, Subodh K. Jain and Pradyumna K. Mishra*
Affiliation:Translational Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar, Division of Translational Research, Tata Memorial Centre, ACTREC, Navi Mumbai, Translational Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar, School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Department of Biochemistry, National Institute for Research in Environmental Health (ICMR), Bhopal, Translational Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar, Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute for Research in Environmental Health (ICMR), Kamla Nehru Hospital Building (Gandhi Medical College Campus), Bhopal (MP) - 462001
Keywords:Circulating nucleic acids, nucleosomes, DNA methylation, histone modifications, miRNA, non-communicable diseases,
translational research.
Abstract:The burden of cardio-vascular and other age-related non-communicable diseases are rapidly increasing
worldwide. Majority of these chronic ailments are curable, if diagnosed at early stages. Candidate biomarkers of
early detection are therefore essential for identification of high-risk individuals, prompt and accurate disease
diagnosis, and to monitor therapeutic response. The functional significance of circulating nucleic acids that recapitulate
specific disease profiles is now well established. But subtle changes in DNA sequence may not solely
reflect the differentiation of gene expression patterns observed in diverse set of diseases as epigenetic phenomena
play a larger role in aetiology and patho-physiology. Unlike genetic markers, knowledge about the diagnostic
utility of circulating epigenetic signatures: methylated DNA; micro RNA and modified histones are deficient.
Characterization of these novel entities through omics-based molecular technologies might prompt development
of a range of laboratory-based strategies, thereby accelerating their broader translational purpose for early disease
diagnosis, monitoring therapeutic response and drug resistance. However, largest opportunity for innovation lies
in developing point-of-care tests with accurate diagnostic and higher prognostic score that is applicable for screening
of high-risk populations.
