Epigenetic Drugs As New Emerging Therapeutics: What Is the Scale's Orientation of Application and Challenges? Publisher Pubmed



Farani MR¹ ; Sarlak M² ; Gholami A³ ; Azaraian M^{4, 5} ; Binabaj MM^{6, 7} ; Kakavandi S⁸ ; Tambuwala MM⁹ ; Taheriazam A^{10, 11} ; Hashemi M^{11, 12} ; Ghasemi S¹³
Source: Pathology Research and Practice Published:2023

Abstract

Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression or function without altering the DNA sequence. Important factors are part of epigenetic events, such as methylation, DNA histone rearrangements, nucleosome transposition, and non-coding RNAs. Dysregulated epigenetic mechanics are associated with various cancers' initiation, development, and metastasis. It is known that the occurrence and development of cancer can be controlled by regulating unexpected epigenetic events. Epi-drugs are used singly or in combination with chemotherapy and enhance antitumor activity, reduce drug resistance, and stimulate the host immune response. Despite these benefits, epigenetic therapy as a single therapy or in combination with other drugs leads to adverse effects. This review article introduces and compares the advantages, disadvantages, and side effects of using these drugs for the first time since their introduction. Also, this article describes the mechanism of action of various epigenetic drugs. Recommendations for future use of epigenetic drugs as cancer therapeutics are suggested as an overall conclusion. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH