Title:Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors as Cognitive Enhancers and Modifiers of
Mood and Behavior
Volume: 24
Issue: 9
Author(s): Dilipkumar Pal*, Pooja Sahu, Abhishek K. Mishra, Albert Hagelgans and Olga Sukocheva*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Bilaspur, C.G., 495 009, India
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, 5042, SA, Australia
Keywords:
Histone deacetylase, HDAC inhibitors, epigenetic modification, memory, small-molecule inhibitors, epigenetic priming.
Abstract:
Background: Epigenetic regulation of gene signalling is one of the fundamental molecular
mechanisms for the generation and maintenance of cellular memory. Histone acetylation is a
common epigenetic mechanism associated with increased gene transcription in the central nervous
system (CNS). Stimulation of gene transcription by histone acetylation is important for the development
of CNS-based long-term memory. Histone acetylation is a target for cognitive enhancement
via the application of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. The promising potential of HDAC inhibitors
has been observed in the treatment of several neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative
diseases.
Objective: This study assessed the current state of HDAC inhibition as an approach to cognitive enhancement
and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Our analysis provides insights into the
mechanism of action of HDAC inhibitors, associated epigenetic priming, and describes the therapeutic
success and potential complications after unsupervised use of the inhibitors.
Results and Conclusion: Several chromatin-modifying enzymes play key roles in the regulation of
cognitive processes. The importance of HDAC signaling in the brain is highlighted in this review.
Recent advancements in the field of cognitive epigenetics are supported by the successful development
of various HDAC inhibitors, demonstrating effective treatment of mood-associated disorders.
The current review discusses the therapeutic potential of HDAC inhibition and observed complications
after mood and cognitive enhancement therapies.