Targeting epigenetics for cancer prevention by dietary cancer preventive compounds--the case of miRNA.

In cancer, genetic mutations have long been considered to be the only driver of neoplasia. However, there is increasing evidence that epigenetic alterations could also play a major role in carcinogenesis and cancer. A number of experimental and epidemiologic studies have shown that many classes of dietary phytochemicals possess cancer-preventive and epigenetic-modifying properties. The report by Derry and colleagues in this issue of the journal shows that grape seed extract (GSE) prevents azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colon colitis via epigenetic microRNA (miRNA) regulation. Although the precise mechanism underlying the control of miRNA expression is not well understood currently, epigenetic changes could play a major role. This report, along with increasing evidence showing the impact of dietary phytochemicals on epigenetic activities, offers new perspectives on miRNA and epigenetic regulation in cancer prevention.