Epigenetic changes and liver carcinogenesis

The molecular mechanisms involved in liver carcinogenesis are poorly understood. Over the past decade, epigenetic changes (DNA methylation) have received increasing attention for their potential involvement in the development of hepatocarcinoma. The DNA methylation level is influenced by environmental factors (folate and methionine diet), as well as by genetic factors (methylenetetrohydrofolate reductase/MTHFR polymorphisms). These findings provide new insight into the understanding of liver carcinogenesis. Interventional studies are now required to determine the role of folate supplementation in the development of liver tumors in targeted patients.