The Potential Role of Epigenetic Drugs in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders

There is increasing evidence that abnormalities in epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression contribute to the pathogenesis of anxiety disorders (ADs). This article discusses the role of epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression in the pathogenesis of ADs. It also discusses the data so far obtained from preclinical and clinical trials on the use of epigenetic drugs for treating ADs. Most drug trials investigating the use of epigenetic drugs for treating ADs have used histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). HDACi are showing favorable results in both preclinical and clinical drug trials for treating ADs. However, at present the mode of action of HDACi in ADs is not clear. More work needs to be done to elucidate how epigenetic dysregulation contributes to the pathogenesis of ADs. More work also needs to be done on the mode of action of HDACi in alleviating the signs and symptoms of ADs.