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Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors in recent clinical trials for cancer therapy

Julia M Wagner, Björn Hackanson, Michael Lübbert

    Clinical Epigenetics
    |January 25, 2011
    PubMed

    Insights

    Epigenetic modifications, unlike genetic mutations, are reversible and offer potential cancer treatments. This review highlights recent clinical trials of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors and biomarkers for epigenetic drug development.

    Area of Science:

    • Epigenetics and Molecular Oncology
    • Pharmacological Interventions in Disease

    Background:

    • Epigenetics involves heritable gene expression changes without altering DNA sequence.
    • Key mechanisms include DNA methylation and histone modifications.
    • Epigenetic alterations are increasingly recognized as drivers of cancer progression.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review recent clinical trials (2009-2010) of systemically administered histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors.
    • To provide an overview of biomarkers for monitoring epigenetic drug effects.
    • To discuss the potential of epigenetic modifications as therapeutic targets.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of systemic histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor clinical trials reported in 2009 and 2010.
    • Analysis of biomarkers used to assess biological effects of epigenetic interventions.

    Main Results:

    • Several epigenetic drugs, including HDAC inhibitors, are approved for cancer treatment.
    • Numerous HDAC inhibitors are in clinical development, indicating significant therapeutic interest.
    • Biomarkers are crucial for monitoring the efficacy and biological impact of these agents.

    Conclusions:

    • Epigenetic modifications represent a promising, potentially reversible therapeutic avenue for cancer and other diseases.
    • Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are a key class of epigenetic drugs with ongoing clinical investigation.
    • Further research into biomarkers will enhance the development and application of epigenetic therapies.

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