Epigenetic Therapy for Breast Cancer

oleh: Xiao-Yan Zhong, Feng-Feng Cai, Corina Kohler, Wei-Jie Chen, Bei Zhang, Ming-Hong Wang

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2011-07-01

Deskripsi

Both genetic and epigenetic alterations can control the progression of cancer. Genetic alterations are impossible to reverse, while epigenetic alterations are reversible. This advantage suggests that epigenetic modifications should be preferred in therapy applications. DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases have become the primary targets for studies in epigenetic therapy. Some DNA methylation inhibitors and histone deacetylation inhibitors are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as anti-cancer drugs. Therefore, the uses of epigenetic targets are believed to have great potential as a lasting favorable approach in treating breast cancer.