[Main aspects of epigenetics of gestational and female genital tumors].
The genotype of our cells is almost the same for all cells in our body, but due to epigenetic effects, their phenotype can show significant differences. Epigenetics is a relatively new field of molecular biology that deals with the changes affecting the heritable phenotype, gene expression and gene activity in addition to the given genotype. The gene expression of immune and tumor cells is regulated by epigenetic processes. These processes can enhance the immune system evasion mechanisms of various tumor cells, while the results of other processes can actually help the immune system function. Our paper explores the epigenetic aspects of gynecological tumors through a thorough review of the Hungarian and international literature, with particular attention to the tumor processes of the cervix, uterus, ovary and breast. It also affects gestational tumors. It discusses the epigenetics of endometriosis, which does not belong to the group of classic tumor diseases, but in terms of its pathomechanism shows many similarities with other tumors. Finally, the paper discusses new findings in epigenetic medicine and therapy. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(52): 2043-2054.