Harnessing mangroves for epigenetic therapies

Area of Science:

• Marine biology
• Pharmacology
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Mangroves are rich sources of diverse phytochemicals with significant therapeutic potential.
• These bioactive compounds can influence epigenetic mechanisms, which are implicated in non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epigenetic-targeting potential of key mangrove-derived phytochemicals.
• To focus on the mechanisms by which these compounds exert their effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on mangrove phytochemicals and their epigenetic effects.
• Analysis of reported mechanisms of action for therapeutic applications.

Main Results:

• Mangrove phytochemicals modulate dysregulated signaling pathways in carcinogenesis.
• Compounds show anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-adipogenic, and anti-allergic actions.
• Potential applications include chemoprevention, diabetes management, endometriosis treatment, and sepsis mitigation.

Conclusions:

• Mangrove-derived phytochemicals possess significant epigenetic-targeting potential for NCDs.
• Further research into synthesis, mechanisms, and applications is warranted.
• This field remains underexplored, highlighting opportunities for pharmacognosists, marine biologists, traditional health professionals, and biochemists.