(1. College of Life Science and Biopharmaceutical Science, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; 2. School of Health sciences, Guangzhou Xinhua University, Guangzhou 510520, China)

Abstract: Breast cancer ranks as one of the most prevalent malignancies globally, predominantly affecting the female population. Notably, the expression of class IIa histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5), exhibits significant variation between breast cancer patients and healthy individuals. This differential expression positions HDAC5 as a promising biomarker for breast cancer and potentially other cancer types. Furthermore, HDAC5 has emerged as a credible molecular target for anticancer therapeutics. This review aims to concisely summarize the structural characteristics of HDAC5, its contributory role in the pathogenesis of breast cancer, and the therapeutic potential of HDAC5 inhibitors. We will discuss the feasibility of detecting HDACs, designing histonedeacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), and identifying effective drug targets in conjunction with HDACi. Our goal is to offer strategic insights for advancing breast cancer treatment, focusing on the application of HDACi in managing breast cancer tumors.

Key words: breast cancer; histone deacetylases; histone deacetylases 5; histone deacetylases 5 inhibitor; drug action targets

（Acta Laser Biology Sinica, 2024, 33(2): 108-114）