Esophageal cancer is a complex disease influenced by genetic and environmental
factors. Single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] in non-coding regions of the genome have
emerged as crucial contributors to esophageal cancer susceptibility. This review provides a
comprehensive overview of the role of SNPs in non-coding regions and their association with
esophageal cancer. The accumulation of SNPs in the genome has been implicated in esophageal
cancer risk. Various studies have identified specific locations in the genome where SNPs are
more likely to occur, suggesting a location-specific response. Chromatin conformational studies
have shed light on the localization of SNPs and their impact on gene transcription, posttranscriptional
modifications, gene expression regulation, and histone modification. Furthermore,
miRNA-related SNPs have been found to play a significant role in esophageal squamous
cell carcinoma [ESCC]. These SNPs can affect miRNA binding sites, thereby altering target
gene regulation and contributing to ESCC development. Additionally, the risk of ESCC has
been linked to base excision repair, suggesting that SNPs in this pathway may influence disease
susceptibility. Somatic DNA segment alterations and modified expression quantitative trait loci
[eQTL] have also been associated with ESCC. These alterations can lead to disrupted gene expression
and cellular processes, ultimately contributing to cancer development and progression.
Moreover, SNPs have been found to be associated with the long non-coding RNA HOTAIR,
which plays a crucial role in ESCC pathogenesis. This review concludes with a discussion of the
current and future perspectives in the field of SNPs in non-coding regions and their relevance to
esophageal cancer. Understanding the functional implications of these SNPs may lead to the
identification of novel therapeutic targets and the development of personalized approaches for
esophageal cancer prevention and treatment.