EZH2 : enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit
The EZH2 Gene: A Key Player in Cell Fate and Disease
Description:
The EZH2 gene encodes an enzyme called EZH2, a type of histone methyltransferase. Histones are proteins that package DNA into compact structures within the nucleus. EZH2 adds a methyl group (CH3) to specific amino acids on histones, altering their structure and suppressing gene expression.
Associated Diseases:
EZH2 plays a crucial role in controlling cell growth and differentiation. Mutations in the EZH2 gene can lead to various cancers, including:
- Lymphoma
- Myeloid leukemia
- Prostate cancer
- Breast cancer
In these cancers, EZH2 mutations result in excessive gene suppression, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 7% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas and 12% of metastatic prostate cancers harbor EZH2 mutations.
