KDM4C

KDM4C, also known as Lysine-specific demethylase 4C, is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the KDM4C gene. This enzyme is part of the JmjC domain-containing family of demethylases, which are involved in the demethylation of histones, thus playing a crucial role in epigenetic regulation and gene expression.

Function

KDM4C is a histone demethylase that specifically demethylates 'Lys-9' and 'Lys-36' residues of histone H3, thereby playing a central role in histone code. By altering the methylation status of histones, KDM4C affects chromatin structure and gene expression, influencing a variety of biological processes including cell differentiation, proliferation, and DNA repair. The enzyme's activity is critical for the regulation of transcription and is implicated in the epigenetic control of cellular memory and development.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of KDM4C have been associated with several types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. Overexpression of KDM4C can lead to changes in chromatin organization and gene expression patterns that promote oncogenesis. As such, KDM4C is being studied as a potential target for cancer therapy, with inhibitors of its enzymatic activity being explored for their therapeutic potential.

In addition to its role in cancer, KDM4C's involvement in other pathological conditions, such as neurological disorders, is under investigation. The enzyme's ability to modulate gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms suggests it may play a role in the development and progression of diseases beyond cancer.

Gene

The KDM4C gene is located on chromosome 9 in humans. It encodes the KDM4C protein, which is highly conserved across species, indicating its importance in cellular processes. The gene undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms of the enzyme.

Interactions

KDM4C interacts with a variety of proteins involved in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation. These interactions are essential for its recruitment to specific genomic loci and its function in histone demethylation. The enzyme's activity and specificity are also regulated by its interaction with other cofactors and post-translational modifications.

Research Directions

Current research on KDM4C is focused on elucidating its precise biological roles and understanding how its dysregulation contributes to disease. Efforts are underway to develop specific inhibitors of KDM4C as potential therapeutic agents for cancer and other diseases. Additionally, studies are exploring the enzyme's potential involvement in other physiological processes, such as stem cell maintenance and immune response regulation.

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