Translational epigenetics in precision medicine of colorectal cancer

Epigenetic alterations play a key role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of cancer. Therefore, epigenetic marks and mechanisms are potential biomarkers for precision medicine in cancer. Considering the substantial role of the epigenetic alterations in DNA methylation, miRNA expression, and posttranslational modifications in histones in colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation and progression, worldwide research has identified new epigenetic biomarker for CRC diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of treatment response, of which some have been approved and are currently being commercialized. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the most promising epigenetic biomarkers and describe commercially available epigenetic-based in vitro diagnostic tests for CRC that can actually be implemented into clinical practice.