DNA methylation affects nuclear organization, histone modifications, and linker histone binding but not chromatin compaction.

ABSTRACT: DNA methylation has been implicated in chromatin condensation and nuclear organization, especially at sites of constitutive heterochromatin. How this is mediated has not been clear. In this study, using mutant mouse embryonic stem cells completely lacking in DNA methylation, we show that DNA methylation affects nuclear organization and nucleosome structure but not chromatin compaction. In the absence of DNA methylation, there is increased nuclear clustering of pericentric heterochromatin and extensive changes in primary chromatin structure. Global levels of histone H3 methylation and acetylation are altered, and there is a decrease in the mobility of linker histones. However, the compaction of both bulk chromatin and heterochromatin, as assayed by nuclease digestion and sucrose gradient se

SUBMITTER: Gilbert N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2064831 | biostudies-literature | 2007 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature