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The role of DNA-demethylating agents in cancer therapy

Parinaz Mehdipour1, Tracy Murphy1, Daniel D De Carvalho2

  • 1Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada.

Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|October 19, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Cancer cells exhibit altered DNA methylation, crucial for their growth. Reversible DNA methylation modifications offer therapeutic potential, with ongoing research exploring novel inhibitors and combination therapies for improved patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • DNA methylation patterns are significantly altered in cancer cells compared to normal cells.
  • These aberrant DNA methylation profiles are linked to cancer initiation and progression.
  • Cancer cells appear to rely on these altered methylation patterns for survival and proliferation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the scientific and clinical aspects of DNA methylation in cancer.
  • To discuss the current limitations and challenges in targeting DNA methylation for cancer therapy.
  • To explore the impact of novel DNA methylation inhibitors and combination therapies on patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific and clinical studies on DNA methylation in cancer.
  • Analysis of current therapeutic strategies targeting DNA methylation.
  • Evaluation of novel DNA methylation inhibitors and combination therapy approaches.

Main Results:

  • Limited success has been achieved in targeting DNA methylation in the clinic to date.
  • Several clinical challenges are associated with current DNA methylation-targeting therapies.
  • Novel DNA methylation inhibitors and combination therapies show promise in improving patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • DNA methylation is a critical epigenetic mechanism in cancer development and progression.
  • Targeting DNA methylation presents a promising avenue for cancer therapy due to its reversibility.
  • Advancements in novel inhibitors and combination therapies are crucial for overcoming clinical challenges and improving efficacy in cancer treatment.
Keywords:
CancerCombination therapyDNA methylationDNA methyltransferase inhibitorsEpigenetic therapyNovel DNMTi

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