Assistant Professor Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Session Description: Cancer and aging are accompanied by stereotyped changes in the epigenetic landscape. Evidence suggests that global hypomethylation represents a "mitotic clock" that counts divisions in somatic cells. It functions to restrain aging cells and limit malignant progression. A more comprehensive understanding of the hypomethylation clock could reveal biomarkers that predict disease risk or stratify tumors and could potentially yield new therapeutic modalities. In this plenary session, Dr. Sarah Johnstone will discuss the relationship between cancer, aging, and epigenetic changes.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will be able to describe the concept of global hypomethylation as a "mitotic clock" in somatic cells during aging and cancer.
Upon completion, participants will be able to discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying global hypomethylation and its potential implications for tumor stratification and therapeutic strategies.
