Histone Deacetylase Inhibition in Colorectal Cancer: Role of Natural Compounds

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health challenge, and the risk factors associated with the development of this disease are lifestyle, genetics, and age. Even though it is considered a disease of older adults, nowadays, the disease is prevalent among young people. Despite advancements, CRC remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The recurrence of CRC often emphasizes the need for better treatment strategies. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have emerged as promising targets, with HDAC inhibitors showing efficacy in preclinical studies. Natural compounds are repositories of a diverse array of bioactive molecules with unique chemical structures, making them valuable sources for discovering novel anticancer agents. Using natural compounds for CRC treatment increases treatment choices and lowers the risk of side effects from synthetic drugs, providing safer and more sustainable therapies. Natural products from various sources, including plants, marine organisms, and microbes, exhibit HDAC inhibitory properties and hold the potential for CRC treatment. Overall, understanding the complex nature of CRC and exploring innovative treatment methods, particularly those targeting HDACs with natural products, offer promising paths for improving outcomes in CRC patients. This review emphasizes the role of HDACs in CRC progression, the therapeutic potential of natural compounds as HDAC inhibitors, and the need for further research to translate these findings into clinical applications.