Perturbation of epigenetic status by toxicants

Toxicol Lett. 2004 Apr 1;149(1-3):51-8. doi: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2004.01.003.

Abstract

It is becoming increasingly apparent that toxicant-induced changes in epigenetic status, particularly DNA methylation patterns, may play a role in some mechanisms of toxicity. Here, we discuss briefly the evidence that alterations in DNA methylation accompany, and may even promote, carcinogenesis induced by non-genotoxic chemicals. We also address recent findings indicating that the availability of dietary methyl donors can modulate DNA methylation levels and precipitate adverse effects.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinogens / toxicity
  • DNA Methylation / drug effects
  • Diet
  • Estrogens, Non-Steroidal / toxicity
  • Gene Expression / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Toxins, Biological / toxicity*

Substances

  • Carcinogens
  • Estrogens, Non-Steroidal
  • Toxins, Biological