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Epigenetic mechanisms of plant-derived anticancer drugs

Regine Schneider-Stock1, Akram Ghantous, Khuloud Bajbouj

  • 1Division Experimental Tumorpathology, Institute for Pathology, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.

Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|December 29, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic alterations drive cancer by disrupting gene expression. Plant-derived compounds, particularly polyphenols, show promise as epigenetic drugs for cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Epigenetic mechanisms are vital for development and health.
  • Disrupted epigenetics, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, leads to cancer.
  • Global epigenetic changes are a hallmark of cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epigenetic machinery in cancer.
  • To highlight plant-derived compounds with epigenetic anticancer activity.
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of these natural products.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epigenetic mechanisms in cancer.
  • Analysis of plant-derived compounds targeting epigenetic processes.
  • Discussion of current and future epigenetic cancer therapy.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic machinery deregulation is a key feature of cancer.
  • Polyphenols, alkaloids, organosulfur compounds, and terpenoids are plant-derived compounds with epigenetic effects.
  • These natural compounds offer potential for novel cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic therapy is a promising avenue for cancer treatment.
  • Plant-derived compounds represent a valuable resource for developing new epigenetic drugs.
  • Further research into these natural products could lead to effective cancer therapies.

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