Histone deacetylase inhibitors: a patent review (2009 - 2011)

Vincenzo Carafa1, Marco Miceli, Lucia Altucci

  • 1Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Dipartimento di Patologia Generale, Italy.

Abstract

Insights

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) show promise as anti-cancer agents by modulating gene expression and inducing tumor cell death. Research is expanding to explore HDACis for treating various non-cancer diseases as well.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are key regulators of gene expression implicated in numerous diseases.
  • HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) modulate transcriptional activity, offering therapeutic potential.
  • HDACis induce anti-tumor effects like cell cycle arrest, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge and molecular mechanisms of HDAC inhibitors.
  • To survey recent patents related to HDAC inhibitors from 2009-2011.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review
  • Patent analysis

Main Results:

  • Identification of diverse HDAC inhibitor structures.
  • Expansion of HDAC inhibitor applications beyond cancer.

Conclusions:

  • HDAC inhibitors are emerging as potential treatments for solid and hematological malignancies.
  • Non-cancer diseases like neurodegeneration, metabolic, inflammatory, autoimmune, infectious, and cardiovascular disorders are potential targets for HDACi therapy.
  • A significant increase in global patent applications for HDAC inhibitors reflects their growing therapeutic importance.

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