title: The epigenome and cancer prevention: A complex story of dietary supplementation.
abstract: Epigenetic changes have been implicated in virtually all types of human malignancies. In contrast to genetic changes, epigenetic changes occur in a gradual manner during the tumorigenic process and they are potentially reversible. Because epigenetic changes have frequently been detected in high-risk populations, they are attractive targets to prevent the initiation of premalignant lesions or their advance to a malignant stage. A wide range of chemical entities has been found capable of altering the epigenome in animal models and humans. Epidemiological and laboratory-based studies suggested that these agents may have an anti-neoplastic effect against different cancer types. Several of these agents have been tested as dietary supplements, often with conflicting results. In this review, we discuss recent developments in our understanding of agents capable of modulating the epigenome and their potential to prevent human cancer when administered as dietary supplements.
authors.affiliation: Epigenetics Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150 Cours Albert-Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France.
authors.forename: Ho-Sun
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: Zdenko
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Herceg
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000187:drug effects / Q000235:genetics; D019175:DNA Methylation / Q000187:drug effects; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D044127:Epigenesis, Genetic / Q000187:drug effects*; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / Q000187:drug effects; D006657:Histones / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D035683:MicroRNAs / Q000378:metabolism; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D006657:Histones; D035683:MicroRNAs