Altered gene expression pattern in the loss-of-function mutant of BRUSHY1 (BRU1), a nuclear factor linking genome integrity and epigenetic regulation

Abstract

Eukaryotic DNA is packed in higher ordered structure of chromatin, whose states are thought to confer basis of epigenetic regulation. Such states are heritable over mitosis or meiosis, however, the molecular mechanism of chromatin reconstitution coupled with DNA replication and repair is still largely unknown. To address this issue, we have focused on function of Arabidopsis BRU1/TSK/MGO3 that was identified as a nuclear factor involved in both DNA repair response and epigenetic regulation of heterochromatic genes. BRU1 has been proposed to have a role for chromatin reconstitution after DNA replication and/or repair. In this study, we show that BRU1 ensures tissue specific expression pattern of genes, required for meristem formation and seed development. Together with global expression profiles in bru1, the result suggests that bru1 possibly affects a wider range of epigenetic regulation. Our recent trial to purify BRU1 complex by TAP system will also be presented.