Epizyme: Expanding Epigenetics

Most epigenetics research, and consequently the only approved epigenetic drugs, have focused on two classes of targets: HDACs and DNA methyltransferases. Epizyme Inc. is avoiding those well-trod areas, focusing instead on a less well-known family of epigenetic enzymes called histone methyltransferases.

The company believes inhibitors of these targets may be able to address more specific patient populations than HDAC or DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, which are promiscuous and can cause off-target side effects...