Epigenetics of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer via Natural Compounds

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a lethal breast carcinoma subtype lacking ER, PR, and HER2 expression.
• TNBC exhibits aggressive behavior, poor prognosis, and high recurrence rates, particularly in women of reproductive age.
• Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key driver of TNBC progression and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review epigenetic modifications driving TNBC development and progression.
• To explore the role of natural compounds as potential therapeutic agents targeting TNBC epigenetics.
• To highlight novel therapeutic strategies for TNBC based on epigenetic mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of epigenetic alterations in TNBC.
• Analysis of epigenetic signatures including DNA methylation and histone remodeling.
• Examination of microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (LncRNA), and other regulatory molecules in TNBC.

Main Results:

• TNBC is characterized by specific epigenetic signatures, including DNA methylation and histone remodeling.
• Various epigenetic regulators such as MiR-193, HIF-2α, and LncRNAs are implicated in TNBC pathogenesis.
• Natural compounds like Thymoquinone (TQ), Regorafenib, and Huaier demonstrate potent antitumor activity.

Conclusions:

• Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in the aggressive nature of TNBC.
• Natural compounds targeting epigenetic mechanisms offer promising therapeutic avenues for TNBC treatment.
• Further research into these epigenetic targets could lead to novel and effective TNBC therapies.