The comprehensive epigenome map of piRNA clusters

Nucleic Acids Res. 2013 Feb 1;41(3):1581-90. doi: 10.1093/nar/gks1275. Epub 2012 Dec 20.

Abstract

PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) clusters act as anti-transposon/retrovirus centers. Integration of selfish jumping elements into piRNA clusters generates de novo piRNAs, which in turn exert trans-silencing activity against these elements in animal gonads. To date, neither genome-wide chromatin modification states of piRNA clusters nor a mode for piRNA precursor transcription have been well understood. Here, to understand the chromatin landscape of piRNA clusters and how piRNA precursors are generated, we analyzed the transcriptome, transcription start sites (TSSs) and the chromatin landscape of the BmN4 cell line, which harbors the germ-line piRNA pathway. Notably, our epigenomic map demonstrated the highly euchromatic nature of unique piRNA clusters. RNA polymerase II was enriched for TSSs that transcribe piRNA precursors. piRNA precursors possessed 5'-cap structures as well as 3'-poly A-tails. Collectively, we envision that the euchromatic, opened nature of unique piRNA clusters or piRNA cluster-associated TSSs allows piRNA clusters to capture new insertions efficiently.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line
  • Chromatin / metabolism
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Histones / metabolism
  • RNA Precursors / biosynthesis
  • RNA, Small Interfering / biosynthesis*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics
  • Transcription Initiation Site
  • Transcriptome

Substances

  • Chromatin
  • Histones
  • RNA Precursors
  • RNA, Small Interfering