Aberrant DNA methylation in skin diseases

Epigenetic mechanisms are involved in regulating cell growth and differentiation without inducing changes in the gene sequence. The main epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA. Recent studies indicate that aberrant DNA methylation is a common feature of many human disorders, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, heart diseases, skin diseases, and others. Skin diseases comprise various diseases that have a complex etiology and pathogenesis, including genetics and acquired factors such as environment and diet. These acquired factors often have pathogenic effects through modification of DNA and histones, of which DNA methylation is the most common mechanism. Aberrant DNA methylation has been demonstrated in skin diseases, including skin tumors and autoimmune-related skin disorders. Herein, we review the role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of skin diseases.