Targeting epigenetic regulatory mechanisms in cancer chemoprevention.
Dysregulation of the epigenome plays a fundamental role in tumour development. Epigenetic events are a major mechanism for inactivating tumour suppressor and DNA repair genes and occur ubiquitously during the early stages of tumour development. Unlike genes inactivated by mutation, genes silenced epigenetically are intact and potentially responsive to reactivation by small molecules. This review discusses the potential for restoring epigenetic balance as a means to prevent cancer.
Fay
Judith R
JR
CCS Associates, 2005 Landings Dr, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA. jfay@ccsainc.com
Crowell
James A
JA
Kopelovich
Levy
L
D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D044127:Epigenesis, Genetic / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents