Changes in DNA 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine Levels and the Underlying Mechanism in Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenomas

Epigenetic factors have been proven to contribute to pituitary adenoma formation. 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), which is catalyzed by ten-eleven translocation 2 (TET2), is related to DNA demethylation. In order to explore the pathogenesis of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), we detected genomic 5hmC levels and TET2 expression, distribution and TET2 alteration in NFPAs and normal pituitary glands. We found genomic 5hmC loss in human NFPAs for the first time. Genomic 5hmC levels may be affected by TET2 expression, subcellular localization and TET2 mutation.