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Epigenetic Drugs and Their Immune Modulating Potential in Cancers
Yingying Liang1, Sevin Turcan1
1Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
Biomedicines
|February 25, 2022
Summary
Epigenetic drugs show promise for solid tumors by boosting antitumor immunity and enhancing immunotherapy. These agents impact the tumor epigenome, potentially optimizing the immune microenvironment for better treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Epigenetic drugs are established treatments for hematologic malignancies.
- Their efficacy in solid tumors remains an active area of research.
- Emerging evidence suggests a role for epigenetic agents in modulating antitumor immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of epigenetic drugs on the tumor epigenome.
- To discuss the potential of epigenetic agents in solid tumor treatment.
- To highlight evidence for epigenetic drugs enhancing antitumor immunity and immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Analysis of data on epigenetic drug mechanisms.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding immune microenvironment modulation.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic drugs can increase tumor antigen presentation.
- These agents may synergize with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
- Evidence suggests epigenetic drugs can optimize the tumor immune microenvironment.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic drugs hold therapeutic potential for solid tumors.
- They may enhance antitumor immunity and improve immunotherapy response.
- Further investigation into epigenetic agents for solid tumors is warranted.
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