Epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer: the role of chromatin remodeling

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in men, distinguished by a multifaceted pathogenesis that involves substantial epigenetic modifications. This article emphasizes the critical role of chromatin remodeling in PCa advancement. Chromatin remodeling, a key epigenetic mechanism, influences gene expression by modulating the chromatin structure through the action of specialized complexes such as SWI/SNF, ISWI, CHD, & INO80, thereby regulating genes vital to tumor progression. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases for studies published between 2000 and 2025, focusing on chromatin remodeling, epigenetic alterations, and therapeutic strategies in PCa. The review discusses the major epigenetic changes observed in PCa, including DNA and RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA)-mediated chromatin remodeling. The evolving epigenetic landscape shaped by these alterations offers insights into novel therapeutic opportunities. The clinical relevance of targeting chromatin remodeling complexes is explored, alongside existing therapies and potential future interventions. This review also addresses challenges in studying chromatin remodeling and highlights emerging technologies that could enhance understanding of PCa epigenetics. This comprehensive exploration underscores the promise of chromatin remodeling as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target in PCa management.