JmjC domain proteins modulate circadian behaviors and sleep in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT: Jumonji (JmjC) domain proteins are known regulators of gene expression and chromatin organization by way of histone demethylation. Chromatin modification and remodeling provides a means to modulate the activity of large numbers of genes, but the importance of this class of predicted histone-modifying enzymes for different aspects of post-developmental processes remains poorly understood. Here we test the function of all 11 non-lethal members in the regulation of circadian rhythms and sleep. We find loss of every Drosophila JmjC gene affects different aspects of circadian behavior and sleep in a specific manner. Together these findings suggest that the majority of JmjC proteins function as regulators of behavior, rather than controlling essential developmental programs.

SUBMITTER: Shalaby NA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5770425 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature