Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 3

Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 3 (TET3) is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the TET3 gene. TET3 is one of the three TET enzymes, which include TET1, TET2, and TET3. These enzymes play a crucial role in DNA methylation, a process that is essential for normal development and is associated with a number of key processes including genomic imprinting, X chromosome inactivation, suppression of repetitive elements, and carcinogenesis.

Function

TET3 is a catalytic enzyme that facilitates the conversion of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), a process that is an integral part of the DNA demethylation pathway. This conversion is a critical step in the regulation of gene expression. TET3 has been found to be particularly active in the oocyte and zygote stages of embryonic development, suggesting a crucial role in early development.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function of TET3 have been associated with a variety of diseases. For instance, mutations in the TET3 gene have been linked to Leukemia and other cancers. Additionally, abnormal TET3 activity has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders and cardiovascular diseases.

See Also

• TET1
• TET2
• DNA methylation
• 5-methylcytosine
• 5-hydroxymethylcytosine