Small RNA Expression from the Human Macrosatellite DXZ4. Issue 10 (1st October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pohlers, Michael; Calabrese, J Mauro; Magnuson, Terry
• Is Part Of: G3. Volume 4:Issue 10(2014)
• Page Start: 1981
• Page End: 1989
• Publication Date: 2014-10-01
• Subjects: small noncoding RNA -- somatic cells -- DNA methylation -- Argonaute -- PIWI; Genetics -- Research -- Periodicals; Genomics -- Periodicals; Genetics; Genomics; Genes; Genetics -- Research; Genomics; Electronic journals; Periodical; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 572.8
• DOI: 10.1534/g3.114.012260
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2160-1836

Abstract

Abstract: Small noncoding RNAs play several roles in regulating gene expression. In the nucleus, small RNA-Argonaute complexes recruit epigenetic modifying activities to genomic sites. This pathway has been described in mammals primarily for the germline; however, its role in somatic cells is less characterized. Here, we describe in human somatic cells a potential link between the expression of small RNAs from the macrosatellite DXZ4 and Argonaute-dependent DNA methylation of this locus. DXZ4 was found to express a wide range of small RNAs potentially representing several classes of small RNAs. A subpopulation of these RNAs is bound by Argonaute. Moreover, we show AGO association with DXZ4 and that the Argonaute proteins AGO-1 and PIWIL4 may play a role in DNA methylation of DXZ4 . We hypothesize that the RNAs are involved in Argonaute-dependent methylation of DXZ4 DNA.