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Polycomb Repressor Complex 2 in Genomic Instability and Cancer

Zoe Veneti1, Kalliopi K Gkouskou2,3, Aristides G Eliopoulos4,5

  • 1Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, Division of Basic Sciences, University of Crete Medical School, 71003 Heraklion, Greece. veneti@imbb.forth.gr.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 1, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Polycomb repressor complexes (PRC) are crucial for development. Aberrant PRC2 function links to cancer by affecting gene expression, DNA repair, and replication, with potential therapeutic interventions emerging.

Area of Science:

  • Epigenetics and Gene Regulation
  • Cancer Biology
  • Chromatin Dynamics

Background:

  • Polycomb repressor complexes (PRC1 and PRC2) are key epigenetic regulators of gene expression and chromatin structure.
  • These complexes play vital roles in normal development.
  • Dysregulation of PRC complexes is increasingly implicated in various diseases, particularly cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular mechanisms linking Polycomb repressor complex (PRC)-mediated epigenetic alterations to genomic instability and cancer.
  • To highlight the specific role of deregulated PRC2 in tumor suppressor gene silencing, DNA damage response, and replication fidelity.
  • To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting PRC2 for cancer prevention and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing evidence.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying PRC function in epigenetics and cancer.
  • Discussion of recent advancements in pharmacological and dietary interventions targeting PRC2.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic aberrations driven by PRC complexes, especially PRC2, are linked to genomic instability and malignancy.
  • Deregulated PRC2 activity impacts tumor suppressor gene expression, DNA damage response pathways, and DNA replication fidelity.
  • Emerging interventions targeting PRC2 show promise for cancer management.

Conclusions:

  • PRC-mediated epigenetic dysregulation is a significant factor in the development of genomic instability and cancer.
  • Targeting PRC2 offers a promising avenue for novel cancer therapies.
  • Further research into PRC2 functions and interventions could lead to effective strategies for cancer prevention and treatment.
Keywords:
DNA damage responsedietenhancer of zeste homolog 2inhibitorspolycombpolycomb repressor complex 2

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