Epigenetic events, remodelling enzymes and their relationship to chromatin organization in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and prostatic adenocarcinoma

Abstract

The present study confirms the ability of high-resolution computerized digital imaging of nuclear texture features to detect changes in chromatin phenotype, epigenetic events and the presence of chromatin remodelling, factors that can be used to distinguish between different prostatic pathologies, i.e. BPH, LGPIN, HGPIN and prostate adenocarcinoma, and further allow the detection of MAC near PIN lesions. These results provide a base for future diagnostic applications of DIA combined with immunohistochemistry. Our experiments underscore the importance of epigenetic mechanisms during carcinogenesis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the complex interplay between chromatin structure, its modifications and the progression of prostate cancer.