Genetic and Epigenetic Drivers of Lung Cancer Heterogeneity and Therapy Resistance
A special issue of Genes (ISSN 2073-4425). This special issue belongs to the section "Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 September 2026 | Viewed by 247
Editors
Interests: liquid biopsy; cfDNA exome; precision medicine; lung cancer genomics; next-generation sequencing
Interests: next-generation sequencing; circulating DNA; epigenetics; lung cancer genomics; therapeutic resistance
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of oncology-related mortality worldwide, presenting a formidable clinical challenge due to its profound biological heterogeneity. While the advent of precision medicine and immunotherapy has revolutionized the therapeutic landscape, the emergence of treatment resistance continues to impede long-term clinical success. This Special Issue of Genes will focus on the intricate interplay between genomic alterations and epigenetic modifications that orchestrates tumor evolution and adaptive survival.
The complexity of lung cancer is not merely a product of primary genetic mutations but is increasingly defined by a dynamic epigenetic landscape. Dysregulated DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA signaling contribute to cellular plasticity, enabling tumors to bypass targeted inhibitions through mechanisms such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) or histological transformation. Decoding how these genetic and epigenetic drivers cooperate to foster a resilient tumor ecosystem is critical in identifying the next generation of predictive biomarkers and therapeutic vulnerabilities.
By showcasing original research articles and comprehensive reviews, this Special Issue will highlight cutting-edge advancements, from single-cell multi-omics to novel strategies for overcoming acquired resistance. Ultimately, integrating these molecular insights is vital in refining personalized medicine and improving patient outcomes in this evolving disease.
Dr. Maria Palmieri
Guest Editors
Dr. Viola Bianca Serio
Guest Editor Assistant
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Keywords
- non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- intratumor heterogeneity
- acquired resistance
- DNA methylation
- histone modifications
- non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs)
- epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)
- single-cell sequencing
- liquid biopsy
- targeted therapy
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