Genetic & epigenetic regulation of scar formation

Within the scope of this review, the roles of epigenetic alterations and genetics in scar formation are investigated. The speed and quality of scar formation are influenced by epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone changes, regulation by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and RNA methylation. These mechanisms regulate gene expression, cell function, and intercellular signaling, which in turn affects scar formation. DNA, which is packaged into chromatin, encodes the genetic information contained within a cell. Additionally, epigenetic changes of DNA and histones, which are the fundamental constituents of chromatin, constitute an extra layer of information that has an effect on the expression of the genes that lie under the surface. In those who are genetically predisposed to the condition, it appears that the environment is the cause of the disease. Some genes have been suggested as potential contributors to the etiology of scarring; however, no single gene mutation has been identified as the cause of scarring as of yet. Therefore, in order to determine the etiology of scarring, it is recommended that a mix of techniques, including association, gene-gene interaction, epigenetics, linkage, gene expression, and protein analysis, be utilized.