Abstract: SET8 (PR-set7, SETD8 or KMT5A) is the only histone monomethylation transferase targeting H4K20, which is an important regulator of cell cycle. The abnormal transcription of SET8 leads to tumorigenesis, invasion and metastasis, and is associated with the poor prognosis. Meanwhile, the abnormal transcription of SET8 also regulates energetic metabolism in cancer to promote tumor progression. This review described the function of SET8 in tumor. And only when we know the mechanism deeply, can we use it to guide tumor diagnosis. New medicine targeting SET8 for tumor therapy is anticipated.

Key words: SET8, Tumor, Proliferation, Metastasis