Histone lysine lactylation (Kla) represents a burgeoning field within the study of post-translational modifications (PTMs), having been first identified in 2019 by Zhao et al. This discovery has opened new avenues for understanding the complex roles of protein modifications in disease progression. Recent studies have highlighted the prevalence of lactylation in both histone and non-histone proteins, implicating it in the development and progression of various diseases, including cancer, kidney injury, cardiovascular disease, and liver fibrosis. Despite these advances, the precise roles and regulatory mechanisms of protein lactylation remain largely elusive. Current research is focused on elucidating these mechanisms, yet significant gaps persist, particularly in understanding how lactylation influences gene expression and cellular function in disease contexts. Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing our knowledge of disease mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
This research topic aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the roles and regulatory mechanisms of protein lactylation in disease progression. The objectives include identifying histone lactylation-activated genes, unraveling the underlying mechanisms of lactylation, and discovering non-histone proteins that undergo lactylation during disease progression. Additionally, the research seeks to identify new factors that regulate protein lactylation, thereby offering insights into potential therapeutic interventions.
To gather further insights into the complex landscape of protein lactylation in disease progression, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Biological function of protein lactylation in disease progression.
- Protein lactylation as a target for disease therapy.
- New lactyltransferases in disease progression.
- New delactylation enzymes in disease progression.
- Other mechanisms that regulate protein lactylation in disease progression.
Keywords: Lactylation, histone, nonhistone protein, disease, therapeutic targets
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
