Asynchronous replication timing of imprinted loci is independent of DNA methylation, but consistent with differential subnuclear localization.

ABSTRACT: Genomic imprinting in mammals marks the two parental alleles resulting in differential gene expression. Imprinted loci are characterized by distinct epigenetic modifications such as differential DNA methylation and asynchronous replication timing. To determine the role of DNA methylation in replication timing of imprinted loci, we analyzed replication timing in Dnmt1- and Dnmt3L-deficient embryonic stem (ES) cells, which lack differential DNA methylation and imprinted gene expression. Asynchronous replication is maintained in these ES cells, indicating that asynchronous replication is parent-specific without the requirement for differential DNA methylation. Imprinting centers are required for regional control of imprinted gene expression. Analysis of replication fork movement and three-dim

SUBMITTER: Gribnau J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC196021 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature