The human synMuv-like protein LIN-9 is required for transcription of G2/M genes and for entry into mitosis

EMBO J. 2007 Jan 10;26(1):144-57. doi: 10.1038/sj.emboj.7601478. Epub 2006 Dec 7.

Abstract

Regulated gene expression is critical for the proper timing of cell cycle transitions. Here we report that human LIN-9 has an important function in transcriptional regulation of G2/M genes. Depletion of LIN-9 by RNAi in human fibroblasts strongly impairs proliferation and delays progression from G2 to M. We identify a cluster of G2/M genes as direct targets of LIN-9. Activation of these genes is linked to an association between LIN-9 and B-MYB. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed binding of both LIN-9 and B-MYB to the promoters of G2/M regulated genes. Depletion of B-MYB recapitulated the biological outcome of LIN-9 knockdown, including impaired proliferation and reduced expression of G2/M genes. These data suggest a critical role for human LIN-9, together with B-MYB, in the activation of genes that are essential for progression into mitosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Cycle Proteins / metabolism*
  • Cell Division*
  • DNA Damage
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Fibroblasts / metabolism
  • G2 Phase*
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • Mitosis*
  • Multigene Family
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • RNA Interference
  • Trans-Activators / metabolism*
  • Transcription, Genetic*
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins / physiology*

Substances

  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • LIN9 protein, human
  • MYBL2 protein, human
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Trans-Activators
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins