Latent Regulatory Potential of Human-Specific Repetitive Elements

• DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2012.11.013
• Publication Date: 2012-12-13T16:36:26Z
• Authors: Michelle C. Ward; Michael D. Wilson; Nuno L. Barbosa-M...; Dominic Schmidt; Rory Stark; Qun Pan; Petra C. Schwalie; Suraj Menon; Margus Lukk; Stephen Watt; David Thybert; Claudia Kutter; Kristina Kirschner; Paul Flicek; Benjamin J. Blencowe; Duncan T. Odom
• Keywords: CpG site; Retrotransposon; Lineage (genetic); Human genetics

SummaryAt least half of the human genome is derived from repetitive elements, which are often lineage specific and silenced by a variety genetic epigenetic mechanisms. Using transchromosomic mouse strain that transmits an almost complete single copy chromosome 21 via female germline, we show heterologous regulatory environment can transcriptionally activate transposon-derived regions. In nucleus, hundreds locations on newly associate with activating histone modifications in both somatic germline tissues, influence gene expression nearby transcripts. These regions enriched primate lineage-specific transposable their activation corresponds to changes DNA methylation at CpG dinucleotides. This study reveals latent potential illustrates species specificity mechanisms control it.Highlights•A carrying fails repress primate-specific repeats•The lack repression was revealed H3K4me3 transcription factor binding•Activation corresponded decrease methylation•Primate-specific repeats activated testes were Tc1