Nutritional Epigenetic Regulators in the Field of Cancer: New Avenues for Chemopreventive Approaches

Cancer is a growing health problem worldwide. Over the past years, epigenetic events emerged as key mechanisms in the initiation and development of tumors by altering gene expression profiles. Epigenetic marks are dynamic and reversible; conversely, they are greatly influenced by environmental factors and especially diet. Indeed, the activity of epigenetic enzymes involved in editing DNA methylation and histone modification patterns requires multiple cofactors. Synthesis and cellular levels of these essential compounds are tightly regulated by diet, metabolism and energy production. Many phytochemicals from food were now identified as regulators of the activity or expression of epigenetic enzymes. Here, we discuss several dietary factors including nutrients and phytochemicals that may represent new avenues for "epigenetic" dietary interventions in the perspective of cancer chemoprevention.