Modular fluorescence complementation sensors for live cell detection of epigenetic signals at endogenous genomic sites.

ABSTRACT: Investigation of the fundamental role of epigenetic processes requires methods for the locus-specific detection of epigenetic modifications in living cells. Here, we address this urgent demand by developing four modular fluorescence complementation-based epigenetic biosensors for live-cell microscopy applications. These tools combine engineered DNA-binding proteins with domains recognizing defined epigenetic marks, both fused to non-fluorescent fragments of a fluorescent protein. The presence of the epigenetic mark at the target DNA sequence leads to the reconstitution of a functional fluorophore. With this approach, we could for the first time directly detect DNA methylation and histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation at endogenous genomic sites in live cells and follow dynamic changes in these

SUBMITTER: Lungu C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5608954 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature