Reversing DNA repair gene hypermethylation in breast cancer: The role of phytochemicals (Review)

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal malignancies affecting women globally, and its progression is influenced by both genetic and epigenetic factors.Among the epigenetic modifications, the DNA hypermethylation of DNA repair genes has been linked to the progression of breast cancers.Notably, these epigenetic modifications can be reversed through natural dietary interventions.The present review discusses the role of natural phytochemicals, plant-based compounds capable of reversing epigenetic modifications, which provide a promising alternative to conventional cancer therapies.Compounds such as genistein, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, sulforaphane, quercetin and apigenin have demonstrated the ability to reverse hypermethylated DNA repair genes, thereby restoring normal repair processes and improving cellular sensitivity to therapeutic agents.The present review emphasizes the importance of phytochemicals in causing epigenetic modifications and their potential as safer, more focused, affordable and low-toxicity treatment options that could transform breast cancer management.Contents 1. Introduction 2. Epigenetic modifications in breast cancer 3. Hypermethylated DNA repair genes in breast cancer 4. Phytochemicals causing the reversal of hypermethylation in DNA repair genes 5. Critical analysis, limitations and future directions 6.