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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Assays for Validating Histone Acetyltransferase Inhibitors
Published on: August 6, 2020
Histone deacetylase inhibitors as potent modulators of cellular contacts
Mathieu Vinken1, Papeleu Peggy, Rogiers Vera
1Department of Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium. mvinken@vub.ac.be
Abstract:
Histone deacetylase inhibitors are nowadays considered as promising anti-cancer drugs, as they interfere with several key steps of tumor development and progression, both in vitro and in vivo. Less attention has been paid to their impact on cell junctions. Nevertheless, cell junctions are gatekeepers in the management of tissue homeostasis, and their aberrant expression and functioning is observed in all aspects of cancer biology. The present review provides a state of the art of the current knowledge concerning the effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors on cell junctions. Besides an updated theoretical basis, we also exemplify its actual relevance in cancer therapy.
Insights
Histone deacetylase inhibitors show anti-cancer potential by affecting tumor progression. This review details their impact on cell junctions, crucial for tissue homeostasis and cancer biology, highlighting therapeutic relevance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are recognized for their anti-cancer properties, impacting tumor development.
- Cell junctions are vital for tissue homeostasis, and their dysfunction is implicated in cancer.
- The role of HDACi on cell junctions remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on the effects of HDAC inhibitors on cell junctions.
- To provide an updated theoretical basis for these interactions.
- To exemplify the relevance of these effects in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on HDAC inhibitors and cell junctions.
- Analysis of in vitro and in vivo data.
- Synthesis of theoretical and therapeutic implications.
Main Results:
- HDAC inhibitors influence the expression and function of various cell junction proteins.
- These effects can modulate cancer cell behavior, including proliferation, migration, and invasion.
- Aberrant cell junction regulation by HDAC inhibitors presents therapeutic opportunities.
Conclusions:
- HDAC inhibitors impact cell junctions, offering a novel mechanism for anti-cancer therapy.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for optimizing HDAC inhibitor-based treatments.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate and exploit the therapeutic potential.
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