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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
10:28
Repressing Gene Transcription by Redirecting Cellular Machinery with Chemical Epigenetic Modifiers
Published on: September 20, 2018
Epigenetic control using natural products and synthetic molecules
Takayoshi Suzuki1, Naoki Miyata
1Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan. suzuki@phar.nagoya-cu.ac.jp
Current Medicinal Chemistry
|April 14, 2006
Summary
Epigenetics involves heritable gene expression changes without altering DNA sequence. This review explores natural and synthetic molecules targeting epigenetic enzymes for potential therapeutic applications, particularly in cancer.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Epigenetics refers to heritable changes in gene expression without DNA sequence alteration.
- Key epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation and histone modifications (acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation).
- These modifications regulate gene expression timing and location.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural products and synthetic molecules that modulate epigenetic enzymes.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic modifications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of natural products and synthetic compounds.
- Analysis of enzyme inhibitors and activators involved in DNA methylation and histone modification.
Main Results:
- Identification of various molecules affecting DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases.
- Discussion of their roles in cellular processes and disease states like cancer.
Conclusions:
- Enzyme inhibitors and activators are valuable research tools.
- Epigenetic therapy holds promise for treating diseases caused by epigenetic dysregulation, including cancer.
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