Role of DNA methylation transferase in urinary system diseases: From basic to clinical perspectives (Review)

Abstract

DNA methylation is one of the earliest discovered and most extensively studied epigenetic regulatory mecha‑ nisms. Broadly, DNA methylation refers to the transfer of a methyl group on S‑adenosine‑L‑methionine (SAM) to the C5 site of cytosine, a reaction catalysed by DNA methyltrans‑ ferase (DNMT). This process can either up‑ or down‑regulate gene expression due to gene promoter methylation, leading to the occurrence of certain diseases. Urinary system diseases, known for their high prevalence and complex pathogenesis, significantly affect the lives and health of patients. Urological tumours, in particular, represent a non‑negligible disease burden worldwide. With the development of epigenetics, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that DNMT plays an important role in urinary system disease. The present review aims to explore the relationship between DNMT and urinary system diseases and the potential of DNMT in the clinical management of these diseases.