Mcl1 Protein's Role in Centromere Structure in Fission Yeast
Author Information
Author(s): Natsume Toyoaki, Tsutsui Yasuhiro, Sutani Takashi, Dunleavy Elaine M., Pidoux Alison L., Iwasaki Hiroshi, Shirahige Katsuhiko, Allshire Robin C., Yamao Fumiaki
Primary Institution: National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
Hypothesis
Mcl1, a DNA polymerase α accessory protein, is critical for the maintenance of centromeric chromatin structures during DNA replication.
Conclusion
Mcl1 and Polα are essential for the proper propagation of centromere chromatin structures during DNA replication.
Supporting Evidence
- Mcl1 is critical for maintenance of centromeric chromatin.
- Mutants lacking Mcl1 show defects in chromosome segregation.
- Mcl1 forms nuclear foci that colocalize with DNA replication machinery.
- Histone acetylation levels are aberrantly increased in mcl1 mutants.
- Mcl1 interacts with Polα, suggesting a role in DNA replication.
- Loss of Cnp1 association with the central core region is observed in mcl1 mutants.
- Mcl1 and Polα are required for the hypoacetylated state of histone H4 at centromeres.
Takeaway
Mcl1 helps keep the centromere, a part of the chromosome, stable during cell division, which is important for passing on genetic information correctly.
Methodology
The study involved screening for mutants in fission yeast that affect centromere function and analyzing the role of Mcl1 in centromeric chromatin structure through various genetic and biochemical assays.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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