Dynamic regulatory interactions of Polycomb group genes: MEDEA autoregulation is required for imprinted gene expression in Arabidopsis

Genes Dev. 2006 May 1;20(9):1081-6. doi: 10.1101/gad.378106.

Abstract

The imprinted Arabidopsis Polycomb group (PcG) gene MEDEA (MEA), which is homologous to Enhancer of Zeste [E(Z)], is maternally required for normal seed development. Here we show that, unlike known mammalian imprinted genes, MEA regulates its own imprinted expression: It down-regulates the maternal allele around fertilization and maintains the paternal allele silent later during seed development. Autorepression of the maternal MEA allele is direct and independent of the MEA-FIE (FERTILIZATION-INDEPENDENT ENDOSPERM) PcG complex, which is similar to the E(Z)-ESC (Extra sex combs) complex of animals, suggesting a novel mechanism. A complex network of cross-regulatory interactions among the other known members of the MEA-FIE PcG complex implies distinct functions that are dynamically regulated during reproduction.

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Arabidopsis / genetics*
  • Arabidopsis / physiology
  • Arabidopsis Proteins / genetics*
  • Arabidopsis Proteins / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Genomic Imprinting
  • Homeostasis
  • Repressor Proteins / physiology
  • Reproduction
  • Seeds / genetics*
  • Seeds / physiology

Substances

  • Arabidopsis Proteins
  • FIE protein, Arabidopsis
  • MEA protein, Arabidopsis
  • Repressor Proteins