Epigenetic mechanisms involved in modulation of inflammatory diseases.

Purpose Of Review: The activation of inflammatory response is dependent upon genetic factors and epigenetic control mechanisms. This overview will highlight recent advances in the understanding of epigenetic dynamics during cellular inflammation.

Recent Findings: There is a growing body of evidence indicating that alterations of the chromatin state associate with an increased risk of chronic disease development and inflammation. Epigenetic alterations respond rapidly to environmental changes and have a profound effect on gene regulatory cross-wirings and transcriptional regulation.

Summary: Systematic dissection of the mechanisms underlying epigenetic effects during inflammatory response is a critical step toward elucidation of the cell's molecular processes and holds potential for the development of novel therapies for the treatment of chronic diseases.