Progress in research of histone methyltransferases and their inhibitors in cancer treatment

Aberrant histone methylation regulated by abnormal histone methyltransferases(HMTs) has emerged as a critical player in the onset and progression of cancer in numerous tumor types. The reversal of aberrant histone methylation changes has therefore emerged as a potential strategy for the treatment of cancer. A number of compounds targeting these HMTs have been developed as novel therapies,in which some are in clinical trials. This review highlights the roles of some HMTs in tumorigenesis and emerging therapies being developed for the treatment of cancer.