Pathogen-Induced Epigenetic Modifications in Cancers: Implications for Prevention, Detection and Treatment of Cancers in Africa

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Cancer is a genetic disease; hence, pathogens are likely to cause cancers via genetic alterations, including epigenetic modification, a change in gene expression without changes in the DNA sequences. However, the mechanism(s) by which pathogens induce or enhance cancer development remains unclear. Studies have reported associations between some infectious pathogens and epigenetic changes, implying that pathogens could be involved in cancer development through the modification of host epigenetic factors. With the high burden of infectious pathogens, Africa is at elevated risk of pathogen-mediated cancers. A better understanding of the role of tropical infectious pathogens in regulating epigenetic modifications associated with cancer development could provide resources to tame the potential rise of pathogen-associated cancers in Africa. This review discusses cancer epigenetic studies in Africa, the link and potential mechanisms by which tropical pathogens induce carcinogenesis and opportunities as well as challenges for cancer management. ABSTRACT: Cancer is a major public health burden worldwide. Tumor formation is caused by multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Many reports have demonstrated a positive correlation between the burden of infectious pathogens and the occurrence of cancers. However, the mechanistic link between pathogens and cancer development remains largely unclear and is subject to active investigations. Apart from somatic mutations that have been widely linked with various cancers, an appreciable body of knowledge points to alterations of host epigenetic patterns as key triggers for cancer development. Several studies have associated various infectious pathogens with epigenetic modifications. It is therefore plausible to assume that pathogens induce carcinogenesis via alteration of normal host epigenetic patterns. Thus, Africa with its disproportionate burden of infectious pathogens is threatened by a dramatic increase in pathogen-mediated cancers. To curb the potential upsurge of such cancers, a better understanding of the role of tropical pathogens in cancer epigenetics could substantially provide resources to improve cancer management among Africans. Therefore, this review discusses cancer epigenetic studies in Africa and the link between tropical pathogens and cancer burden. In addition, we discuss the potential mechanisms by which pathogens induce cancers and the opportunities and challenges of tropical pathogen-induced epigenetic changes for cancer prevention, detection and management.