MacroH2A1.2 deficiency leads to neural stem cell differentiation defects and autism-like behaviors

ABSTRACT: The development of the nervous system requires precise regulation. Any disturbance in the regulation process can lead to neurological developmental diseases, such as autism and schizophrenia. Histone variants are important components of epigenetic regulation. The function and mechanisms of the macroH2A (mH2A) histone variant during brain development are unknown. Here, we show that deletion of the mH2A isoform mH2A1.2 interferes with neural stem cell differentiation in mice. Deletion of mH2A1.2 affects neurodevelopment, enhances neural progenitor cell (NPC) proliferation, and reduces NPC differentiation in the developing mouse brain. mH2A1.2-deficient mice exhibit autism-like behaviors, such as deficits in social behavior and exploratory abilities. We identify NKX2.2 as an important downstr

SUBMITTER: Dr. Hongyan Ma 

PROVIDER: S-SCDT-EMBOR-2020-52150V1 | biostudies-other |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other