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Epigenetic therapy: use of agents targeting deacetylation and methylation in cancer management

Allen S Ho1, Sevin Turcan, Timothy A Chan

  • 1Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.

Oncotargets and Therapy
|April 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic treatments targeting DNA methylation and histone modification show promise in cancer therapy. Further research is needed to overcome challenges in solid tumors and combination therapies for improved patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modification are crucial regulators of gene expression in cancer.
  • Aberrant epigenetic processes disrupt cellular homeostasis and contribute to cancer development.
  • Epigenetic therapies have already shown success in hematologic malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in epigenetic treatments for cancer.
  • To discuss the implications of these advancements for future cancer therapy.
  • To highlight persistent challenges in the field.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent scientific literature on epigenetic cancer therapies.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data and approved epigenetic agents.
  • Discussion of ongoing research and future directions.

Main Results:

  • Several epigenetic agents are approved for hematologic diseases, with others in clinical trials.
  • Progress has been made in understanding the interplay between epigenetic and genetic factors.
  • Challenges remain in patient selection and efficacy for solid tumors.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic therapies represent a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
  • Optimizing combination therapies is crucial for overcoming chemoresistance and minimizing side effects.
  • Continued research is essential to fully realize the potential of epigenetic treatments in diverse cancer types.
Keywords:
acetylationcancerepigeneticshistonemethylationtranscriptiontumor

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