Abstract

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of tumor cells with self-renewing properties, contributing to tumor initiation, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Epigenetic regulation, encompassing DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA interactions, plays a critical role in maintaining the plasticity and malignancy of CSCs. Targeting the epigenetic landscape of CSCs offers novel opportunities for cancer therapy, with the potential to overcome drug resistance and reduce tumor recurrence. This review explores the epigenetic mechanisms governing CSC function, current therapeutic approaches targeting these pathways, and the challenges and opportunities for translating epigenetic therapies into clinical practice.