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Updated: May 25, 2026

Assays for Validating Histone Acetyltransferase Inhibitors
Published on: August 6, 2020
Histone deacetylase modulators provided by Mother Nature
Carole Seidel1, Michael Schnekenburger, Mario Dicato
1Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer, Fondation de Recherche Cancer et Sang, Hôpital Kirchberg, 9 Rue Edward Steichen, 2540, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.
Natural compounds that inhibit histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes show promise as anticancer therapies. By modulating protein acetylation, these HDAC inhibitors offer a new strategy for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Protein acetylation is regulated by histone acetyltransferase and histone deacetylase (HDAC) activities.
- An imbalance in acetylation disrupts cellular integrity and contributes to diseases like cancer.
- Modulating HDAC activity is a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural molecules that modulate HDAC activities.
- To highlight natural compounds with promising anticancer activities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of natural products identified as HDAC inhibitors.
- Analysis of their mechanisms of action and anticancer potential.
Main Results:
- Numerous synthetic and natural products, including dietary compounds, are known HDAC inhibitors.
- Natural molecules targeting HDACs demonstrate significant potential in anticancer applications.
Conclusions:
- Natural HDAC inhibitors offer a promising avenue for developing novel anticancer therapies.
- Further research into these compounds could lead to new treatment strategies for cancer.
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