The transcription factor NRSF contributes to epileptogenesis by selective repression of a subset of target genes.

ABSTRACT: The mechanisms generating epileptic neuronal networks following insults such as severe seizures are unknown. We have previously shown that interfering with the function of the neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF/REST), an important transcription factor that influences neuronal phenotype, attenuated development of this disorder. In this study, we found that epilepsy-provoking seizures increased the low NRSF levels in mature hippocampus several fold yet surprisingly, provoked repression of only a subset (∼10%) of potential NRSF target genes. Accordingly, the repressed gene-set was rescued when NRSF binding to chromatin was blocked. Unexpectedly, genes selectively repressed by NRSF had mid-range binding frequencies to the repressor, a property that rendered them sensitive to moderate flu

SUBMITTER: McClelland S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4129437 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature