SP1 antagonizes H3K27me3 to shape chromatin landscapes for RNA polymerase II recruitment during gastrulation [RNA-seq]
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ABSTRACT: Following implantation, the epiblast gives rise to three germ layers that form the cellular foundation of the entire body plan. However, how transcription is initiated and regulated at developmental genes during this critical period remains unclear. By analyzing RNA polymerase II (Pol II) occupancy in mouse post-implantation embryos, we found that Pol II occupies nearly half of bivalent promoters, in a temporally ordered, stepwise manner. H3K27me3 is deposited first at developmental genes, followed by the sequential acquisition of H3K4me3 and Pol II. Pol II recruitment is quantitatively modulated by the opposing activities of KMT2B-mediated H3K4me3 and EED-dependent H3K27me3: loss of H3K4me3 impairs Pol II binding, while depletion of H3K27me3 enhances its occupancy and leads to premature gene activation. Notably, the transcription factor SP1 promotes Pol II recruitment by antagonizing H3K27me3 deposition. These in vivo findings shed light on chromatin-based mechanisms that regulate transcriptional activation of developmental genes during early embryogenesis.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE269651 | GEO | 2026/03/19
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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