Histone deacetylases as new therapy targets for platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer

INTRODUCTION: In developed countries, ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. Due to the non-specific symptomatology associated with the disease many patients with ovarian cancer are diagnosed late, which leads to significantly poorer prognosis. Apart from surgery and radiotherapy, a substantial number of ovarian cancer patients will undergo chemotherapy and platinum based agents are the mainstream first-line therapy for this disease. Despite the initial efficacy of these therapies, many women relapse; therefore, strategies for second-line therapies are required. Regulation of DNA transcription is crucial for tumour progression, metastasis and chemoresistance which offers potential for novel drug targets. METHODS: We have reviewed the existing literature on the role of histone deacetylases, nuclear enzymes regulating gene transcription. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Analysis of available data suggests that a signifant proportion of drug resistance stems from abberant gene expression, therefore HDAC inhibitors are amongst the most promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Together with genetic testing, they may have a potential to serve as base for patient-adapted therapies.