SMYD3 (SET and MYND domain-containing protein 3) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression and cell proliferation. It belongs to the SET domain-containing family of lysine methyltransferases, which are enzymes that add methyl groups to lysine residues on histone proteins and other target proteins. SMYD3 specifically targets histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) for methylation, a modification associated with active gene transcription.
The overexpression of SMYD3 has been implicated in a variety of cancers, including breast, colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancer. In cancer cells, SMYD3 promotes tumor growth and metastasis by enhancing the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, survival, and migration. By methylating histone H3K4, SMYD3 creates a more permissive chromatin environment that allows for increased transcription of these target genes.
In addition to its role in cancer, SMYD3 has also been implicated in other diseases and biological processes. For example, SMYD3 has been shown to regulate the expression of genes involved in inflammation and immune responses, suggesting a role in the immune system. Furthermore, SMYD3 has been implicated in cardiovascular diseases, where it may play a role in regulating the expression of genes involved in heart development and function.
Due to its involvement in cancer and other diseases, SMYD3 has emerged as a potential therapeutic target. Several small molecule inhibitors of SMYD3 have been developed and are being investigated for their ability to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. These inhibitors hold promise as potential cancer treatments, particularly for cancers that overexpress SMYD3.
In conclusion, SMYD3 is a lysine methyltransferase enzyme that plays a critical role in gene expression regulation and cell proliferation. Its overexpression is associated with various cancers, making it a promising target for cancer therapy. Further research into the mechanisms of SMYD3 and its inhibitors may lead to new treatments for cancer and other diseases.