Related Experiment Videos
Targeting Epigenetics in Cancer
Richard L Bennett1, Jonathan D Licht1
1Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Florida Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32606, USA;
Abstract:
Alterations of genes regulating epigenetic processes are frequently found as cancer drivers and may cause widespread alterations of DNA methylation, histone modification patterns, or chromatin structure that disrupt normal patterns of gene expression. Because of the inherent reversibility of epigenetic changes, inhibitors targeting these processes are promising anticancer strategies. Small molecules targeting epigenetic regulators have been developed recently, and clinical trials of these agents are under way for hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. In this review, we describe how the writers, readers, and erasers of epigenetic marks are dysregulated in cancer and summarize the development of therapies targeting these mechanisms.
Insights
Cancer cells hijack epigenetic regulators, altering gene expression. Reversible epigenetic therapies offer promising new treatments for various cancers, targeting these key mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Epigenetic alterations are key drivers in cancer development.
- These changes affect DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin structure.
- Dysregulation disrupts normal gene expression patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of epigenetic regulators in cancer.
- To summarize the development of epigenetic therapies.
- To discuss targeting epigenetic writers, readers, and erasers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epigenetic mechanisms in cancer.
- Analysis of current small molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic regulators.
- Summary of ongoing clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic regulators are frequently dysregulated in cancer.
- Small molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic processes show promise.
- Clinical trials are underway for hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic alterations are crucial in cancer.
- Targeting epigenetic mechanisms represents a promising therapeutic strategy.
- Reversible epigenetic therapies are advancing cancer treatment.