Teamwork of clustered low affinity κB sites and accessory factors regulates transcriptional strength of NF-κB RelA dimers

ABSTRACT: Non-consensus binding sites of transcription factors are often observed within the promoters and enhancers of various genes; however, their effect on transcriptional strength is unclear. Within the promoters and enhancers of NF-κB-responsive genes, we identified clusters of non- consensus κB DNA sites, many exhibiting low affinity for NF-κB in vitro. Deletion of these sites demonstrated their collective critical role in transcription. We explored how these “weak” κB sites exert their influence, especially given the typically low nuclear concentration of NF-κB. Using proteomics approaches, we identified additional nuclear factors, including other DNA-binding TFs, that could interact with κB site-bound NF-κB RelA without their direct interaction to DNA. ChIP- seq and RNA-seq analyses suggest that these accessory TFs, referred to as the TF-cofactors of NF-κB, facilitate dynamic recruitment of NF-κB to the clustered κB sites. Overall, the occupancy of NF-κB at promoters and enhancers appears to be defined by a collective contribution from all κB sites, both weak and strong, in association with specific cofactors. This congregation of multiple factors within dynamic transcriptional complexes is likely a common feature of transcriptional programs.

INSTRUMENT(S):

ORGANISM(S): Mus Musculus (mouse)

TISSUE(S): Embryo, Fibroblast

SUBMITTER: Shandy Shahabi  

LAB HEAD: Gourisankar Ghosh

PROVIDER: PXD065004 | Pride | 2025-10-13

REPOSITORIES: Pride