DNA methylation regulates the expression of the negative transcriptional regulators ID2 and ID4 during OPC differentiation.

ABSTRACT: The differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) into myelinating oligodendrocytes is the prerequisite for remyelination in demyelinated disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, have been suggested to control the intricate network of transcription factors involved in OPC differentiation. Yet, the exact mechanism remains undisclosed. Here, we are the first to identify the DNA-binding protein inhibitors, Id2 and Id4, as targets of DNA methylation during OPC differentiation. Using state-of-the-art epigenetic editing via CRISPR/dCas9-DNMT3a, we confirm that targeted methylation of Id2/Id4 drives OPC differentiation. Moreover, we show that in the pathological context of MS, methylation and gene expression levels of both ID2 and ID4

SUBMITTER: Tiane A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8558293 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature