The Potential of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors in Lung Cancer

The activator protein-1 transcription factor in respiratory epithelium carcinogenesis

Respiratory epithelium cancers are the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The multistep natural history of carcinogenesis can be considered as a gradual accumulation of genetic and epigenetic aberrations, resulting in the deregulation of cellular homeostasis. Growing evidence suggests that cross-talk between membrane and nuclear receptor signaling pathways along with the activator protein-1 (AP-1) cascade and its cofactor network represent a pivotal molecular circuitry participating directly or indirectly in respiratory epithelium carcinogenesis. The crucial role of AP-1 transcription factor renders it an appealing target of future nuclear-directed anticancer therapeutic and chemoprevention approaches. In the present review, we will summarize the current knowledge regarding the implication of AP-1 proteins in respiratory epithelium carcinogenesis, highlight the ongoing research, and consider the future perspectives of their potential therapeutic interest.

Epigenomics in respiratory epithelium carcinogenesis: prevention and therapeutic challenges

Respiratory epithelium carcinogenesis is currently considered as the phenotypic aspect of serial genetic and epigenetic aberrations resulting in deregulation of cellular homeostasis. Recent data indicate that DNA demethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors might act synergistically for the prevention of cancer development throughout the carcinogen-exposed epithelium. Preliminary clinical trials have shown encouraging results using these new molecules in lung carcinomas therapeutics. However, the caveats that should be overtaken for efficacious antitumour activity have also emerged. Setting the context in which epigenetic modifications contribute to carcinogenesis evolution is of paramount importance in order to optimize the potency of the current and future epigenome targeting agents.