The low-toxicity 9-cis UAB30 novel retinoid down-regulates the DNA methyltransferases and has anti-telomerase activity in human breast cancer cells.

Retinoic acids and their derivatives potentiate anti-cancer effects in breast cancer cells. The aberrant expression of telomerase is critical to the continued proliferation of most cancer cells. Thus, telomerase is an attractive target for chemoprevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Profiling DNA methylation by bisulfite genomic sequencing: problems and solutions.

The surge of interest in DNA methylation during the last two decades has triggered an urgent need for an effective method to detect the methylation status of the cytosines in the genome. Bisulfite genomic sequencing is the most attractive choice so far for many laboratories. Various protocols have been established, but difficulties are often encountered, particularly by individuals who have limited experience in this field.

EGCG down-regulates telomerase in human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells, leading to suppression of cell viability and induction of apoptosis.

Telomerase is elevated in >90% of breast carcinomas and therefore has received much attention as a target for breast cancer therapy and cancer diagnostic research. Dietary components that are capable of inhibiting the growth of cancer cells without affecting the growth of normal cells are receiving considerable attention in developing novel cancer-preventive approaches. Studies have shown that (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) from green tea imparts a growth inhibitory effect on cancer cells.

Aging, cancer and nutrition: the DNA methylation connection.

Cancer and aging are two coupled developmental processes as reflected by the higher incidence of cancer in the elderly human population group. Genetic mutations accumulate in somatic cells with age, which may explain in part the association of age with cancer. Epigenetic mechanisms are also frequently involved in controlling gene functions during development and tumorigenesis.