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RNAi genes pave their own way.
Leonie M Kamminga1, René F Ketting
1Hubrecht Institute-KNAW, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands. r.ketting@hubrecht.eu
Genes & Development
|March 17, 2011
Summary
Researchers discovered an autoregulatory loop controlling RNAi gene expression and heterochromatin formation in fission yeast. Gene orientation unexpectedly influences this crucial cell cycle process.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Heterochromatin formation in fission yeast is well-studied.
- The role of RNA interference (RNAi) in heterochromatin is known.
- Regulation of RNAi component expression during heterochromatin formation remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the regulation of RNAi component expression during heterochromatin formation in fission yeast.
- To elucidate the role of RNAi in cell cycle-dependent heterochromatin establishment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of RNAi gene expression.
- Studies on centromeric heterochromatin formation.
- Investigation of cell cycle regulation.
Main Results:
- An autoregulatory loop controlling RNAi gene expression was identified.
- This loop is linked to centromeric heterochromatin formation during the cell cycle.
- Gene orientation was found to play a significant role in this regulatory process.
Conclusions:
- RNAi gene expression is autoregulated in fission yeast.
- This autoregulation is integral to cell cycle-dependent centromeric heterochromatin formation.
- Gene orientation is a novel factor influencing heterochromatin regulation via RNAi.
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