Histone Modification of Colorectal Cancer by Natural Products

Zijun Geng1, Meiqi Chen1, Qixuan Yu1

  • 1School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China.

Insights

Natural products regulate colorectal cancer by targeting epigenetic mechanisms. This review explores how compounds like curcumin and resveratrol impact cancer cell growth, apoptosis, and resistance to chemotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Natural Products Chemistry
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Natural products are crucial in colorectal cancer (CRC) pathogenesis and act as gene regulators.
  • They influence CRC cell growth via multiple signaling pathways, including RAC1/PI3K/AKT, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, JAK-STAT, NF-κB, Notch, Hippo, and Hedgehog.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epigenetic roles of natural products in colorectal cancer.
  • To elucidate their impact on CRC cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and chemoresistance.
  • To provide a basis for understanding epigenetics in CRC and identify new therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on natural products and their epigenetic mechanisms in colorectal cancer.
  • Analysis of signaling pathways modulated by natural products in cancer.
  • Examination of the effects of specific compounds like platycodin D, ginsenoside Rd, and curcumin on CRC progression.

Main Results:

  • Natural products exert epigenetic effects on colorectal cancer cells.
  • Compounds influence key cancer hallmarks, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration.
  • Natural products show potential in overcoming anti-chemotherapeutic resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Natural products offer promising epigenetic strategies for colorectal cancer prevention and treatment.
  • Understanding these mechanisms can lead to novel therapeutic targets and improved CRC management.
  • Further research into natural product epigenetics is vital for advancing CRC therapy.

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