The Polycomb-Group GeneEzh2 Is Required for Early Mouse Development

• DOI: 10.1128/mcb.21.13.4330-4336.2001
• Publication Date: 2002-07-27T10:06:23Z
• Authors: Dónal O'Carroll; Sylvia Erhardt; Michaela Pagani; Sheila C. Barton; M. Azim Surani; Thomas Jenuwein
• Keywords: Polycomb-group proteins

Polycomb-group (Pc-G) genes are required for the stable repression of homeotic selector and other developmentally regulated genes, presumably through modulation chromatin domains. Among Drosophila Pc-G Enhancer zeste [E(z)] merits special consideration since it represents one most conserved evolution. In addition, E(Z) protein family contains SET domain, which has recently been linked with histone methyltransferase (HMTase) activity. Although E(Z)-related proteins have not (yet) directly associated HMTase activity, mammalian Ezh2 is a member deacetylase complex. To investigate its in vivo function, we generated mice deficient Ezh2. The null mutation results lethality at early stages mouse development. mutant either cease developing after implantation or initiate but fail to complete gastrulation. Moreover, Ezh2-deficient blastocysts display an impaired potential outgrowth, preventing establishment Ezh2-null embryonic stem cells. Interestingly, up-regulated upon fertilization remains highly expressed preimplantation Together, these data suggest essential role forEzh2 during development genetically linkEzh2 eed YY1, only early-acting genes.