The AlkB Family of Fe (II)/Alpha-Ketoglutarate-Dependent Dioxygenases Modulates Embryogenesis through Epigenetic Regulation

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

E-ISSN:  2212-3946|13|2|136-143

ISSN: 1574-888x

Source: Current Stem Cell Research & Therapy, Vol.13, Iss.2, 2018-01, pp. : 136-143

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Abstract

Background: The study of epigenetic regulation has made substantial progress in recentyears. The AlkB family in E. coli was identified as a type of DNA repair enzyme that removes alkyladducts from nucleobases. Recently, nine mammalian homologs, ALKBH1-9, have been successfullyidentified and defined as diverse demethylases. ALKBH1, ALKBH5, ALKBH8 and ALKBH9 act asRNA demethylases, while ALKBH2-3 and ALKBH7 correct methyl and etheno adducts in DNA.Moreover, ALKBH4 focuses primarily on actin. Disorders of AlkB family level in mammals inducemany types of diseases.Objective: In this review, we will elaborate on the structure and biological function of the members ofthe AlkB family. We will also focus on the latest progress of the research on the mammalian AlkBfamily, particularly on new breakthroughs, and present the relevant disorders or diseases induced byan abnormal level of the AlkB family.Conclusion: The AlkB family plays a crucial role in embryogenesis and differentiation. The aberrantlevel of the AlkB family leads to many types of diseases. The members of the AlkB family may serveas potential cancer markers and possible therapeutic targets in the future.