KAT8, also known as lysine acetyltransferase 8 or MOF, is an enzyme involved in epigenetic regulation, primarily recognized for its histone acetylation ability. It modulates chromatin structure by acetylating histone H4 lysine 16 (H4K16), influencing gene expression, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. KAT8 is part of multiprotein assemblies like the male-specific lethal (MSL) and non-specific lethal (NSL) complexes, regulating transcriptional activities and developmental functions [3].

Trophoblast-specific deletion of Kat8 in mice leads to extraembryonic ectoderm abnormalities and embryonic lethality, revealing its essential role in sustaining trophoblast self-renewal and proliferation via regulating CDX2 through H4K16 acetylation [2]. In colorectal cancer, deletion of KAT8 inhibits tumor growth, especially in a high-lactic tumor microenvironment, as KAT8-catalyzed lactylation promotes eEF1A2-mediated protein synthesis and carcinogenesis [1]. In bladder cancer, the KAT8 inhibitor MG149 decreases YEATS4 acetylation, reduces cell viability, and sensitizes cells to cisplatin treatment, highlighting the role of the KAT8/YEATS4 axis in tumor growth and cisplatin sensitivity [4]. Also, dual inhibition of KAT5 and KAT8 via MG149 compound inhibits the initial steps of PINK1-dependant mitophagy in the context of Parkinson's Disease-related research [5].

In conclusion, KAT8 is crucial for multiple biological processes such as trophoblast development, protein synthesis in cancer cells, and mitophagy regulation. Model-based research, especially gene knockout studies in mice, has significantly contributed to understanding KAT8's role in diseases like colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, and potentially Parkinson's Disease. These findings may offer new therapeutic strategies for these diseases.