PRMT3 and CARM1: Emerging Epigenetic Targets in Cancer

J Cell Mol Med. 2025 Feb;29(4):e70386. doi: 10.1111/jcmm.70386.

Abstract

The family of protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) occupies an important position in biology, especially during the initiation and development of cancer. PRMT3 and CARM1(also known as PRMT4), being type I protein arginine methyltransferases, are key in controlling tumour progression by catalysing the mono-methylation and asymmetric di-methylation of both histone and non-histone substrates. This paper reviews the functions and potential therapeutic target value of PRMT3 and CARM1 in a variety of cancers. Studies have identified abnormal expressions of PRMT3 and CARM1 in several malignancies, closely linked to cancer progression, advancement, and resistance to treatment. Such as hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. These findings offer new strategies and directions for cancer treatment, especially in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional treatment methods.

Keywords: CARM1; PRMT3; cancer; epigenetic; inhibitor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Protein-Arginine N-Methyltransferases* / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Protein-Arginine N-Methyltransferases* / genetics
  • Protein-Arginine N-Methyltransferases* / metabolism

Substances

  • Protein-Arginine N-Methyltransferases
  • coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1