Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors: Targeting Epigenetic Regulation in the Treatment of Acute Leukemia

Overview

Journal Ther Adv Hematol

Specialty Hematology

Date 2024 Oct 18

PMID 39421716

Authors

Tong Xiao

Zhigang Chen

Yutong Xie

Chao Yang

Junhong Wu

Lei Gao

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Acute leukemia (AL) is a rare yet perilous malignancy. Currently, the primary treatment for AL involves combination chemotherapy as the cornerstone of comprehensive measures, alongside hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as a radical approach. However, despite these interventions, mortality rates remain high, particularly among refractory/recurrent patients or elderly individuals with a poor prognosis. Acetylation, a form of epigenetic regulation, has emerged as a promising therapeutic avenue for treating AL. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of acetylation regulation as a novel treatment pathway. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) play a pivotal role in modulating the differentiation and development of tumor cells through diverse pathways, simultaneously impacting the maturation and function of lymphocytes. HDACis demonstrate promise in enhancing survival rates and achieving a complete response in both acute myeloid leukemia and acute T-lymphoblastic leukemia patients. This article provides a comprehensive review of the advancements in HDACi therapy for AL, shedding light on its potential implications for clinical practice.

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