[Epigenetic regulation in neuronal differentiation and brain function]

DNA Methylation and Chromatin: Role(s) of Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein ZBTB38

DNA methylation plays an essential role in the control of gene expression during early stages of development as well as in disease. Although many transcription factors are sensitive to this modification of the DNA, we still do not clearly understand how it contributes to the establishment of proper gene expression patterns. We discuss here the recent findings regarding the biological and molecular function(s) of the transcription factor ZBTB38 that binds methylated DNA sequences in vitro and in cells. We speculate how these findings may help understand the role of DNA methylation and DNA methylation–sensitive transcription factors in mammalian cells.

Kinases and chromatin structure: who regulates whom?

Chromatin structure is regulated by families of proteins that are able to covalently modify the histones and the DNA, as well as to regulate the spacing of nucleosomes along the DNA. Over the years, these chromatin remodeling factors have been proven to be essential to a variety of processes, including gene expression, DNA replication, and chromosome cohesion. The function of these remodeling factors is regulated by a number of chemical and developmental signals and, in turn, changes in the chromatin structure eventually contribute to the response to changes in the cellular environment. Exciting new research findings by the laboratories of Sharon Dent and Steve Jackson indicate, in two different contexts, that changes in the chromatin structure may, in reverse, signal to intracellular signaling pathways to regulate cell fate. The discoveries clearly challenge our traditional view of 'epigenetics', and may have important implications in human health.