The role of EZH2 in tumour progression

C-J Chang1, M-C Hung

  • 1Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

British Journal of Cancer
|December 22, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Blocking enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) offers a promising anticancer strategy. Targeting EZH2 or its downstream pathways may reverse cancer-promoting properties and suppress tumor progression and recurrence.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is frequently deregulated in various cancers.
  • EZH2 plays a critical role in maintaining cancer stem cells and promoting tumor development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms of EZH2 regulation and its gene targets in cancer progression.
  • To discuss current and potential cancer therapies targeting EZH2 and its downstream cascades.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of EZH2 function, regulation, and therapeutic targeting in cancer.
  • Analysis of EZH2's role in oncogenesis and stemness properties.

Main Results:

  • EZH2 deregulation is implicated in diverse cancer types.
  • Targeting EZH2 may reverse oncogenic and stemness phenotypes.

Conclusions:

  • Blocking EZH2 activity is a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
  • Targeting EZH2 cascades could suppress cancer progression and recurrence.

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