Cdc42 is a small RhoGTP-ase that by regulating the cytoskeletal organization is involved in several signalling pathways and epigenetic processes, including genome markings by histones (Lugert et al. 2010).
Epigenetic processes, including histone modifications by specific enzymes, are crucial for controlling gene expression, but are often altered in various cancers and other disease conditions.
Epigenetic processes, including DNA methylation, act as a conduit through which the environment can regulate gene activity.
AML is characterized by myeloid differentiation blockade and clonal leukaemic proliferation and may involve deregulation of transcription factors (Rosenbauer and Tenen, 2007) as well as microRNAs and epigenetic processes including deregulation of chromatin structure (Melnick and Licht, 2002).
It is likely that epigenetic processes including changes in histone modifications affect the development of germ cell tumours.
Three main epigenetic processes include DNA methylation, nucleosome repositioning by histone modifications and miRNAs [41].
Epigenetic processes include DNA methylation, covalent histone modifications (e.g. methylation, acetylation), and chromatin remodeling (SWI/SNF complex).
Specific epigenetic processes include DNA methylation, chromotin remodeling, histone modification, and microRNA regulations.
Pharmacologic agents that affect epigenetic processes include HDACi, HAT inhibitors, and DNMT inhibitors.
Epigenetic processes include histone modifications and methylation of CpGs (cytosine-guanosine dinucleotides) on the DNA, especially on gene promoters.
