Mutations in Histone Lysine Methyltransferases and Demethylases

Lysine methylation is an important posttranslational modification of histone and nonhistone proteins with key roles in carcinogenesis. Recently, recurrent somatic mutations in protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) and lysine demethylases (KDMs) have been identified in various tumors. These mutations can cause loss-of-function and gain-of-function effects, where the mutation alters critical enzymatic properties or the interaction with regulatory proteins. Here, we describe the roles of selected PKMTs and KDMs in cancer focusing on the effects of somatic cancer mutations. Investigation of the effect of somatic cancer mutations helps to understand the role of PKMTs and KDMs in carcinogenesis and to develop individualized cancer therapies.