Epigenetic Regulation of MicroRNAs Offers Novel Strategy for Cancer Treatment

Researchers have discovered a new potential approach for treating human cancers, focusing on the regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) through epigenetic processes. A study published in Cancer Cell reveals that agents known to affect gene expression can also influence the function of miRNAs, which may serve as tumor suppressors in normal cells. The study's findings suggest that chromatin-modifying drugs can reactivate miRNA expression, potentially leading to the suppression of cancer cell growth.

Key Takeaways:

• DNA methylation and histone deacetylation, epigenetic processes, can regulate gene expression and impact miRNA function.
• Chromatin-modifying drugs can reactivate miRNA expression, which may be downregulated in cancer cells.
• The study identified miR-127 as a potential tumor suppressor, as its induction resulted in the downregulation of BCL6, a proto-oncogene.
• The induction of miR-127 by chromatin-remodeling drugs may have an anticancer effect, suggesting a novel strategy for cancer treatment.
• Dr. Peter A. Jones from the Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Southern California led the study, emphasizing the importance of researching epigenetic regulation of miRNA expression.

Statistics:

• 75% of human cancer cells tested had downregulated miR-127.
• The study used chromatin-remodeling drugs to simultaneously inhibit DNA methylation and histone deacetylation.
• The induction of miR-127 resulted in the downregulation of BCL6, a known proto-oncogene.

Sources:

• Cancer Cell, "Epigenetic Regulation of MicroRNAs: A Novel Strategy for Cancer Treatment"
• Health & Medicine Week, "Research: Chromatin-remodeling Drugs May Trigger Cancer Breakthrough"

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