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An overview of epigenetics and chemoprevention

Yi-Wen Huang1, Chieh-Ti Kuo, Kristen Stoner

  • 1Human Cancer Genetics Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States. yi-wen.huang@osumc.edu

FEBS Letters
|November 9, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Cancer arises from genetic mutations and epigenetic changes like DNA methylation. Targeting these reversible epigenetic alterations offers promising avenues for cancer prevention and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cancer Prevention

Background:

  • Cancer development involves both genetic alterations (mutations) and epigenetic changes (e.g., DNA methylation).
  • Epigenetic dysregulation is a key factor in cancer initiation and progression.
  • Aberrant epigenetic patterns are potentially reversible, presenting therapeutic opportunities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of epigenetic changes in cancer development.
  • To highlight the potential of targeting epigenetic modifications for cancer prevention.
  • To investigate the influence of dietary factors on epigenetic patterns.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current understanding of genetic and epigenetic contributions to cancer.
  • Analysis of synthetic drugs targeting epigenetic enzymes (DNA methyltransferase, histone deacetylase).
  • Consideration of dietary factors in epigenetic modulation.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic dysregulation is a significant driver of cancer.
  • Enzyme-targeting drugs are clinically active in modifying epigenetic patterns.
  • Dietary factors show potential for reversing aberrant epigenetic patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic modifications are crucial in cancer etiology and progression.
  • Targeting epigenetic mechanisms, including through diet, is a viable strategy for cancer prevention.
  • Further research into the human epigenome can enhance our understanding and prevention efforts.

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