H3-H4 histone chaperones and cancer

Abstract

Histone chaperones are key regulators of chromatin structure and function. Their frequent mis-regulation in various cancers can impact tumor initiation and progression. Here, we focus on H3-H4 histone chaperones to highlight recent studies concerning their roles in several cancers thereby expanding on previous reports illustrating their functions as tumor-promoting and/or as useful biomarkers for clinical applications. In particular, we discuss how imperfect compensation between H3-H4 histone chaperones favors tumor progression by stimulating the Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) or the Alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway. Finally, we present initial studies pointing towards therapies that target H3-H4 histone chaperones for cancer treatment.