Tet2 at the interface between cancer and immunity

Commun Biol. 2020 Nov 12;3(1):667. doi: 10.1038/s42003-020-01391-5.

Abstract

Keeping a balance between DNA methylation and demethylation balance is central for mammalian development and cell function, particularly in the hematopoietic system. In various mammalian cells, Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (Tet2) catalyzes oxygen transfer to a methyl group of 5-methylcytosine (5mC), yielding 5-hydroxymethylcytocine (5hmC). Tet2 mutations drive tumorigenesis in several blood cancers as well as in solid cancers. Here I discuss recent studies that elucidate mechanisms and biological consequences of Tet2 dysregulation in blood cancers. I focus on recent findings concerning Tet2 involvement in lymphoid and myeloid cell development and its functional roles, which may be associated with tumorigenesis. I also discuss how Tet2 activities are modulated by microRNAs, metabolites, and other interactors, including vitamin C and 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG), and review the clinical relevance and potential therapeutic applications of Tet2 targeting. Finally, I propose key unanswered hypotheses regarding Tet2 in the cancer-immunity cycle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation
  • DNA-Binding Proteins*
  • Dioxygenases
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Hematologic Neoplasms*
  • Hematopoiesis
  • Humans
  • Immunity*
  • Mice
  • Neoplastic Processes
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins*

Substances

  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins
  • Dioxygenases
  • TET2 protein, human
  • Tet2 protein, mouse