Journal of Molecular Oncology Research

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Short Communication - Journal of Molecular Oncology Research (2025) Volume 9, Issue 1

Epitranscriptomics and liquid biopsy: Advancing early cancer detection and understanding tumor progression

Gress Goel *

Department of Molecular Oncology, University of Tokyo, Japan

*Corresponding Author:
Gress Goel
Department of Molecular Oncology, University of Tokyo, Japan
E-mail: gress@goel.jp

Received: 01-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAMOR -25-161673; Editor assigned: 02-Jan-2025, PreQC No. AAMOR -25-161673(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Jan-2025, QC No. AAMOR -25-161673; Revised: 22-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAMOR -25-161673(R); Published: 29-Jan-2025, DOI: 10.35841/ aamor-9.1.276

Citation: : Goel G. Epitranscriptomics and liquid biopsy: Advancing early cancer detection and understanding tumor progression. J Mol Oncol Res. 2025;9(1):276.

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Introduction

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with early detection and understanding of tumor biology being crucial for improving patient outcomes. Recent advances in molecular biology have highlighted the role of epitranscriptomics, the study of chemical modifications in RNA, in tumor progression. Simultaneously, liquid biopsy has emerged as a non-invasive technique for detecting cancer at its earliest stages. These two fields intersect to provide novel insights into cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies [1].

Epitranscriptomics focuses on RNA modifications that regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. One of the most studied modifications is N6-methyladenosine (m6A), which influences RNA stability, splicing, and translation. Aberrant m6A modifications have been linked to various cancers, affecting oncogene expression and tumor microenvironment dynamics [2].

Emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation of RNA modifications contributes to uncontrolled cell proliferation, metastasis, and immune evasion. For example, changes in m6A methylation patterns have been observed in hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, and breast cancer, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for tumor progression [3].

Targeting RNA-modifying enzymes, such as m6A methyltransferases (METTL3, METTL14) or demethylases (ALKBH5, FTO), has shown promise in preclinical studies. Modulating these pathways could offer new therapeutic opportunities for personalized cancer treatment by restoring normal RNA modification patterns [4].

Liquid biopsy, which involves analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), RNA, or exosomes in bodily fluids, offers a minimally invasive method for early cancer detection. Unlike traditional tissue biopsies, which require invasive procedures, liquid biopsy enables real-time monitoring of tumor dynamics and genetic alterations [5].

Recent studies have identified epitranscriptomic markers in circulating RNA, such as m6A-modified transcripts, which can serve as early indicators of cancer. These markers can help distinguish between malignant and benign conditions, aiding in early diagnosis and risk stratification [6].

Liquid biopsy is already being utilized in clinical settings for detecting cancers such as lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer. However, challenges remain, including standardizing detection techniques, improving sensitivity, and validating biomarkers for routine clinical use [7].

Combining epitranscriptomic analysis with liquid biopsy has the potential to enhance cancer diagnostics significantly. By profiling RNA modifications in circulating tumor RNA, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of tumor evolution and treatment resistance mechanisms [8].

The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in liquid biopsy analysis holds promise for improving cancer detection accuracy. Additionally, further exploration of RNA modifications could lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic targets and enhance precision oncology strategies [9, 10].

Conclusion       

Epitranscriptomics and liquid biopsy represent two revolutionary approaches in cancer research. While epitranscriptomics provides crucial insights into tumor progression, liquid biopsy offers a non-invasive method for early detection and disease monitoring. The synergy between these fields has the potential to transform cancer diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and paving the way for personalized medicine.

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