Mouse Rif1 is a key regulator of the replication-timing programme in mammalian cells

EMBO J. 2012 Sep 12;31(18):3678-90. doi: 10.1038/emboj.2012.214. Epub 2012 Jul 31.

Abstract

The eukaryotic genome is replicated according to a specific spatio-temporal programme. However, little is known about both its molecular control and biological significance. Here, we identify mouse Rif1 as a key player in the regulation of DNA replication timing. We show that Rif1 deficiency in primary cells results in an unprecedented global alteration of the temporal order of replication. This effect takes place already in the first S-phase after Rif1 deletion and is neither accompanied by alterations in the transcriptional landscape nor by major changes in the biochemical identity of constitutive heterochromatin. In addition, Rif1 deficiency leads to both defective G1/S transition and chromatin re-organization after DNA replication. Together, these data offer a novel insight into the global regulation and biological significance of the replication-timing programme in mammalian cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle
  • DNA Replication*
  • Female
  • G1 Phase
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Genome
  • Genotype
  • Heterochromatin / chemistry
  • Kinetics
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Microscopy, Confocal / methods
  • Nuclear Matrix / metabolism
  • S Phase
  • Telomere-Binding Proteins / genetics*
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • Heterochromatin
  • Rif1 protein, mouse
  • Telomere-Binding Proteins