Current Perspectives on Histone Demethylases

  1. Xiaoqing TIAN,
  2. Jingyuan FANG

Article first published online: 12 FEB 2007

DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7270.2007.00272.x

Issue

Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica

Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica

Volume 39, Issue 2, pages 81–88, February 2007

Additional Information

How to Cite

TIAN, X. and FANG, J. (2007), Current Perspectives on Histone Demethylases. Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica, 39: 81–88. doi: 10.1111/j.1745-7270.2007.00272.x

Author Information

  1. Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai 200001, China

*Correspondence: Jingyuan FANG,

*Correspondence: *Corresponding author: Tel, 86-21-63200874; Fax, 86-21-63266027; E-mail, jingyuanfang@yahoo.com

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 12 FEB 2007
  2. Article first published online: 12 FEB 2007
  3. Received: December 6, 2006; Accepted: January 29, 2007

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Keywords:

  • epigenetic modification;
  • histone methylation;
  • demethylase;
  • lysine specific demethylase 1;
  • Jumonji C (JmjC) protein

Abstract

The posttranslational modification of histones plays an important role in chromatin regulation. Histone methylation influences constitutive heterochromatin, genomic imprinting, X-chromosome inactivation and gene transcription. Histone demethylase catalyzes the removal of methyl groups on lysine or arginine residues of histones. Two kinds of histone lysine demethylases have been identified, including lysine specific demethylase 1 and Jumonji C (JmjC) domain family proteins. These histone demethylases are involved in the regulation of gene expression. Histone modification is a dynamic process, and the imbalance of histone methylation has been linked to cancers. Therefore, histone demethylases may represent a new target for anti-cancer therapy.

Edited by Elena BATTAGLIOLI

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