Epigenetic Regulation of Immune Responses in Autoimmune Diseases and Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

Authors

• Faisal H. Al-Amier, Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
• Ammar B. Al-Asadi, Ibn Sina University of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baghdad, IraqFollow
• Aljuboori M. Nafea, Ibn Sina University of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baghdad, Iraq
• Karar M. Jaleel, Department of Anesthesia Techniques, College of Health and Medical Technology, University of Madenat Al-Elem, Baghdad, Iraq

Article Type

Review

Abstract

Immune tolerance balances immune responses with self-tolerance, a balance that is directive by epigenetic pathways. These mechanisms responsible for gene expression regulation and immune cell activity, and include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Disruption of mechanisms involved in the autoimmune disorder pathophysiology like systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis through the induction of long term inflammation and breakdown of immune tolerance. In cancer, epigenetic changes allow immune evasion and establish an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Epigenetic markers have been used for diagnosis and prognosis, and epigenetic treatments have the potential to rebalance the immune system and improve response to therapy. But issues with specificity and disease variability are yet to be fully addressed, so there is a need for more research to enhance clinical utility.

Keywords

Epigenetic, Autoimmune disorder, Cancer, DNA methylation, miRNA, circRNA

Recommended Citation

Al-Amier, Faisal H.; Al-Asadi, Ammar B.; Nafea, Aljuboori M.; and Jaleel, Karar M. (2026) "Epigenetic Regulation of Immune Responses in Autoimmune Diseases and Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications," Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences: Vol. 7: Iss. 11, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70080/2790-7937.1073