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Epigenetic inhibitors for cancer treatment

Hongchao Yuan1, Yuanjun Lu1, Yibin Feng1

  • 1School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.

International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology
|February 15, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic regulators influence cancer progression and chemoresistance. Targeting these aberrant regulators with epigenetic drugs offers a promising strategy for cancer treatment, with ongoing research for novel inhibitors.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Epigenetics involves heritable, reversible modifications impacting gene expression without altering DNA sequence.
  • Aberrant epigenetic regulators are implicated in cancer progression, affecting tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME).
  • Epigenetic regulators show potential as biomarkers for predicting clinical outcomes and chemoresistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the applications and latest advancements of epigenetic inhibitors in cancer therapy.
  • To explore the potential of targeting deregulated epigenetic regulators for cancer treatment.
  • To discuss the future prospects of epigenetic drug development.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on epigenetic inhibitors in cancer treatment.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical trial data for epigenetic drugs.
  • Exploration of natural compounds and synthetic molecules as epigenetic inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • Current epigenetic drugs demonstrate promising efficacy in preclinical and clinical cancer studies.
  • Targeting epigenetic regulators is a compelling strategy for cancer treatment.
  • Few epigenetic drugs are FDA-approved, highlighting the need for further research and development.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic inhibitors represent a significant therapeutic strategy for cancer.
  • Continued research is crucial for developing novel and effective epigenetic drugs.
  • The field holds promise for improving cancer treatment outcomes and overcoming chemoresistance.
Keywords:
Anti-cancerClinical trialsEpigenetic inhibitorsMechanism of action

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