Published online Mar 14, 2025. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v31.i10.101838
Revised: January 23, 2025
Accepted: February 5, 2025
Published online: March 14, 2025
Processing time: 151 Days and 1.5 Hours
In recent years, significant progress has been made in the application of DNA methylation for the early detection of esophageal cancer (EC). As an epigenetic modification, DNA methylation allows for noninvasive screening by detecting the methylation status of circulating tumor DNA. Studies have shown that the methylation of genes such as SHOX2, SEPTIN9, EPO, and RNF180 significantly improves diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. Currently, SEPTIN9 has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for colorectal cancer screening, while SHOX2 and EPO show promising results in EC, and RNF180 has potential in gastrointestinal tumors. This editorial reviews the study by Liu et al, which demonstrated the potential of combining the methylation of these four genes for early EC screening. In addition to their roles in early diagnosis, DNA methylation markers are gaining attention because of their roles in predicting recurrence and in postoperative follow-up. By monitoring changes in methylation levels, these markers can provide valuable insights into treatment efficacy and long-term management. As research progresses, liquid biopsy technology is expected to become an essential tool in the precision diagnosis and treatment of EC, benefiting patients significantly.
Core Tip: This editorial highlights advancements in the use of DNA methylation as a noninvasive biomarker for the early detection of esophageal cancer (EC). This study combines the methylation markers SHOX2, SEPTIN9, EPO, and RNF180 to improve diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, the editorial discusses the roles of these markers in predicting recurrence and monitoring treatment efficacy, underscoring the promise of liquid biopsy technology in enhancing precision diagnosis and patient management in patients with EC.