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We recently introduced an absolute and physical quantitative scale for chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq). The scale itself was determined directly from measurements routinely made on sequencing samples without additional reagents or spike-ins. We called this approach sans spike-in quantitative ChIP, or siQ-ChIP. Herein, we extend those results in several ways. First, we simplified the calculations defining the quantitative scale, reducing practitioner burden. Second, we reveal a normalization constraint implied by the quantitative scale and introduce a new scheme for generating ‘tracks’. The constraint requires that tracks are probability distributions so that quantified ChIP-seq is analogous to a mass distribution. Third, we introduce some whole-genome analyses that allow us, for example, to project the IP mass (immunoprecipitated mass) onto the genome to evaluate how much of any genomic interval was captured in the IP. We applied siQ-ChIP to p300/CBP inhibition and compare our results to those of others. We detail how the same data-level observations are misinterpreted in the literature when tracks are not understood as probability densities and are compared without correct quantitative scaling, and we offer new interpretations of p300/CBP inhibition outcomes.

Supplementary Data S1A-S9

Purpose:The successful clinical translation of compounds that target specific oncogenic transcription factors will require an understanding of the mechanism of target suppression to optimize the dose and schedule of administration. We have previously shown trabectedin reverses the gene signature of the EWS-FLI1 transcription factor. In this report, we establish the mechanism of suppression and use it to justify the reevaluation of this drug in the clinic in patients with Ewing sarcoma.Experimental Design: We demonstrate a novel epigenetic mechanism of trabectedin using biochemical fractionation and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing. We link the effect to drug schedule and EWS-FLI1 downstream target expression using confocal microscopy, qPCR, Western blot analysis, and cell viability assays. Finally, we quantitate target suppression within the three-dimensional architecture of the tumor in vivo using 18F-FLT imaging.Results:Trabectedin evicts the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex from chromatin and redistributes EWS-FLI1 in the nucleus leading to a marked increase in H3K27me3 and H3K9me3 at EWS-FLI1 target genes. These effects only occur at high concentrations of trabectedin leading to suppression of EWS-FLI1 target genes and a loss of cell viability. In vivo, low-dose irinotecan is required to improve the magnitude, penetrance, and duration of target suppression in the three-dimensional architecture of the tumor leading to differentiation of the Ewing sarcoma xenograft into benign mesenchymal tissue.Conclusions:These data provide the justification to evaluate trabectedin in the clinic on a short infusion schedule in combination with low-dose irinotecan with 18F-FLT PET imaging in patients with Ewing sarcoma.

We previously developed sans spike-in quantitative chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (siQ-ChIP), a technique that introduces an absolute quantitative scale to ChIP-seq data without reliance on spike-in normalization approaches. The physical model of siQ-ChIP predicted that the IP step of ChIP would produce a classical binding isotherm when antibody or epitope was titrated. Here, we define experimental conditions in which this titration is observable for antibodies that recognize modified states of histone proteins. We show that minimally sequenced points along an isotherm can reveal differential binding specificities that are associated with on- and off-target epitope interactions. This work demonstrates that the interpretation of histone post-translational modification distribution from ChIP-seq data has a dependence on antibody concentration. Collectively, these studies introduce a simplified and reproducible experimental method to generate quantitative ChIP-seq data without spike-in normalization and demonstrate that histone antibody specificity can be analyzed directly in ChIP-seq experiments.

Lysine methylation modulates the function of histone and non-histone proteins, and the enzymes that add or remove lysine methylation—lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) and lysine demethylases (KDMs), respectively—are frequently mutated and dysregulated in human diseases. Identification of lysine methylation sites proteome-wide has been a critical barrier to identifying the non-histone substrates of KMTs and KDMs and for studying functions of non-histone lysine methylation. Detection of lysine methylation by mass spectrometry (MS) typically relies on the enrichment of methylated peptides by pan-methyllysine antibodies. In this study, we use peptide microarrays to show that pan-methyllysine antibodies have sequence bias, and we evaluate how the differential selectivity of these reagents impacts the detection of methylated peptides in MS-based workflows. We discovered that most commercially available pan-Kme antibodies have an in vitro sequence bias, and multiple enrichment approaches provide the most comprehensive coverage of the lysine methylome. Overall, global lysine methylation proteomics with multiple characterized pan-methyllysine antibodies resulted in the detection of 5089 lysine methylation sites on 2751 proteins from two human cell lines, nearly doubling the number of reported lysine methylation sites in the human proteome.

Environmental nutrient availability influences T cell metabolism, impacting T cell function and shaping immune outcomes. However, the metabolic pathways critical for optimal T cell responses remain poorly understood. Here, we identify ketone bodies (KBs) – including β-hydroxybutyrate (βOHB) and acetoacetate (AcAc) – as essential fuels supporting CD8+ T cell metabolism and effector function. Ketolysis is an intrinsic feature of highly functional CD8+ T effector (Teff) cells and βOHB directly increases CD8+ Teff cell IFN-γ production and cytolytic activity. Using metabolic tracers, we establish that CD8+ Teff cells preferentially use KBs over glucose to fuel the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in vitro and in vivo. KBs directly boost the respiratory capacity of CD8+ T cells and TCA cycle-dependent metabolic pathways that fuel T cell growth. Mechanistically, we find that βOHB is a major substrate for acetyl-CoA production in CD8+ T cells and regulates effector responses through effects on histone acetylation. Together, our results identify cell-intrinsic ketolysis as a metabolic and epigenetic driver of optimal CD8+ T cell effector responses.One Sentence summaryKetone bodies promote CD8+ T cell metabolism and effector function through regulation of epigenetic programming

Previously, we introduced an absolute and physical quantitative scale for chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing. The scale itself was determined directly from measurements routinely made on sequencing samples without additional reagents or spike-ins. We called this approach sans spike-in quantitative ChIP, or siQ-ChIP. In this paper we extend those results in several ways. First, we simplified the calculations defining the quantitative scale. Second, we highlight the normalization constraint implied by the quantitative scale and introduce a new scheme for generating ’tracks’ for siQ-ChIP. We next introduce some whole-genome analyses that are unique to siQ-ChIP which allow us, for example, to project the IP mass onto the genome to evaluate how much of any genomic interval was captured in the IP. We apply these analyses to p300/CBP inhibition and demonstrate that response to inhibition is a function of genomic architecture. In particular, active transcription start sites are only weakly perturbed by p300/CBP inhibition while enhancers are strongly perturbed. Similar observations have been reported in the literature, but without a quantitative scale, those observations have been misinterpreted. We discuss how the siQ-ChIP approach precludes such misinterpretations, which stem from the widespread community practice of treating unquantified and unnormalized ChIP-seq tracks as though they are quantitative.

ChIP followed by next-generation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) is a key technique for mapping the distribution of histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and chromatin-associated factors across genomes. There is a perceived challenge to define a quantitative scale for ChIP-Seq data, and as such, several approaches making use of exogenous additives, or "spike-ins," have recently been developed. Herein, we report on the development of a quantitative, physical model defining ChIP-Seq. The quantitative scale on which ChIP-Seq results should be compared emerges from the model. To test the model and demonstrate the quantitative scale, we examine the impacts of an EZH2 inhibitor through the lens of ChIP-Seq. We report a significant increase in immunoprecipitation of presumed off-target histone PTMs after inhibitor treatment, a trend predicted by the model but contrary to spike-in–based indications. Our work also identifies a sensitivity issue in spike-in normalization that has not been considered in the literature, placing limitations on its utility and trustworthiness. We call our new approach the sans-spike-in method for quantitative ChIP-sequencing (siQ-ChIP). A number of changes in community practice of ChIP-Seq, data reporting, and analysis are motivated by this work.

Complex organisms can rapidly induce select genes in response to diverse environmental cues. This regulation occurs in the context of large genomes condensed by histone proteins into chromatin. The sensing of pathogens by macrophages engages conserved signalling pathways and transcription factors to coordinate the induction of inflammatory genes1–3. Enriched integration of histone H3.3, the ancestral histone H3 variant, is a general feature of dynamically regulated chromatin and transcription4–7. However, how chromatin is regulated at induced genes, and what features of H3.3 might enable rapid and high-level transcription, are unknown. The amino terminus of H3.3 contains a unique serine residue (Ser31) that is absent in ‘canonical’ H3.1 and H3.2. Here we show that this residue, H3.3S31, is phosphorylated (H3.3S31ph) in a stimulation-dependent manner along rapidly induced genes in mouse macrophages. This selective mark of stimulation-responsive genes directly engages the histone methyltransferase SETD2, a component of the active transcription machinery, and ‘ejects’ the elongation corepressor ZMYND118,9. We propose that features of H3.3 at stimulation-induced genes, including H3.3S31ph, provide preferential access to the transcription apparatus. Our results indicate dedicated mechanisms that enable rapid transcription involving the histone variant H3.3, its phosphorylation, and both the recruitment and the ejection of chromatin regulators. The histone variant H3.3 is phosphorylated at Ser31 in induced genes, and this selective mark stimulates the histone methyltransferase SETD2 and ejects the ZMYND11 repressor, thus revealing a role for histone phosphorylation in amplifying de novo transcription.

Background SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complexes regulate lineage-specific enhancer activity by promoting accessibility for diverse DNA-binding factors and chromatin regulators. Additionally, they are known to modulate the function of the epigenome through regulation of histone post-translational modifications and nucleosome composition, although the way SWI/SNF complexes govern the epigenome remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate the function of ARID1A, a subunit of certain mammalian SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes associated with malignancies and benign diseases originating from the uterine endometrium. Results Through genome-wide analysis of human endometriotic epithelial cells, we show that more than half of ARID1A binding sites are marked by the variant histone H3.3, including active regulatory elements such as super-enhancers. ARID1A knockdown leads to H3.3 depletion and gain of canonical H3.1/3.2 at ARID1A-bound active regulatory elements, and a concomitant redistribution of H3.3 toward genic elements. ARID1A interactions with the repressive chromatin remodeler CHD4 (NuRD) are associated with H3.3, and ARID1A is required for CHD4 recruitment to H3.3. ZMYND8 interacts with CHD4 to suppress a subset of ARID1A, CHD4, and ZMYND8 co-bound, H3.3+ H4K16ac+ super-enhancers near genes governing extracellular matrix, motility, adhesion, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, these gene expression alterations are observed in human endometriomas. Conclusions These studies demonstrate that ARID1A-containing BAF complexes are required for maintenance of the histone variant H3.3 at active regulatory elements, such as super-enhancers, and this function is required for the physiologically relevant activities of alternative chromatin remodelers.

ARID1A is a signature subunit of the mammalian SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex and is mutated at a high rate in malignancies and benign diseases originating from the uterine endometrium. Through genome-wide analysis of human endometriotic epithelial cells, we show that more than half of ARID1A binding sites are marked by the variant histone H3.3, including active regulatory elements. ARID1A loss leads to H3.3 depletion at ARID1A bound active regulatory elements and a concomitant redistribution of H3.3 towards genic elements. ARID1A interactions with the repressive chromatin remodeler CHD4 (NuRD) are associated with H3.3-containing chromatin regulation. ZMYND8, the CHD4-interacting acetyl-histone H4 reader, specifies ARID1A-CHD4-H3.3 target regulatory activity towards histone H4 lysine 16 acetylation (H4K16ac) to repress super-enhancers. ARID1A, H3.3, CHD4, and ZMYND8 co-repress the expression of genes governing extracellular matrix, motility, adhesion, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, these gene expression alterations are observed in human endometriomas. Altogether, these studies demonstrate that cooperation among a histone reader and different types of chromatin remodelers safeguards the endometrium through transcriptionally repressive H3.3.

The Su(var)3–9, enhancer of zeste, and trithorax (SET) and really interesting new gene (RING) finger–associated (SRA) protein domain is conserved across bacteria and eukaryota and coordinates extrahelical or “flipped” DNA bases. A functional SRA domain is required for ubiquitin-like with PHD and RING finger domains 1 (UHRF1) E3 ubiquitin ligase activity toward histone H3, a mechanism for recruiting the DNA methylation maintenance enzyme DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). The SRA domain supports UHRF1 oncogenic activity in colon cancer cells, highlighting that UHRF1 SRA antagonism could be a cancer therapeutic strategy. Here we used molecular dynamics simulations, DNA binding assays, in vitro ubiquitination reactions, and DNA methylation analysis to identify the SRA finger loop as a regulator of UHRF1 ubiquitin targeting and DNA methylation maintenance. A chimeric UHRF1 (finger swap) with diminished E3 ligase activity toward nucleosomal histones, despite tighter binding to unmodified or asymmetric or symmetrically methylated DNA, uncouples DNA affinity from regulation of E3 ligase activity. Our model suggests that SRA domains sample DNA bases through flipping in the presence or absence of a cytosine modification and that specific interactions of the SRA finger loop with DNA are required for downstream host protein function. Our findings provide insight into allosteric regulation of UHRF1 E3 ligase activity, suggesting that UHRF1's SRA finger loop regulates its conformation and function.

International audience; Landmark discoveries made nearly two decades ago identified known transcriptional regulators as histone lysine methyltransferases. Since then, the field of lysine methylation signaling has been dominated by studies of how this small chemical posttranslational modification regulates gene expression and other chromatin-based processes. However, recent advances in mass-spectrometry-based proteomics have revealed that histones are just a subset of the thousands of eukaryotic proteins marked by lysine methylation. As the writers, erasers, and readers of histone lysine methylation are emerging as a promising therapeutic target class for cancer and other diseases, a key challenge for the field is to define the full spectrum of activities for these proteins. Here we summarize recent discoveries implicating non-histone lysine methylation as a major regulator of diverse cellular processes. We further discuss recent technological innovations that are enabling the expanded study of lysine methylation signaling. Collectively, these findings are shaping our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of non-histone protein regulation through this dynamic and multi-functional posttranslational modification.

Purpose:The successful clinical translation of compounds that target specific oncogenic transcription factors will require an understanding of the mechanism of target suppression to optimize the dose and schedule of administration. We have previously shown trabectedin reverses the gene signature of the EWS-FLI1 transcription factor. In this report, we establish the mechanism of suppression and use it to justify the reevaluation of this drug in the clinic in patients with Ewing sarcoma.Experimental Design: We demonstrate a novel epigenetic mechanism of trabectedin using biochemical fractionation and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing. We link the effect to drug schedule and EWS-FLI1 downstream target expression using confocal microscopy, qPCR, Western blot analysis, and cell viability assays. Finally, we quantitate target suppression within the three-dimensional architecture of the tumor in vivo using 18F-FLT imaging.Results:Trabectedin evicts the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex from chromatin and redistributes EWS-FLI1 in the nucleus leading to a marked increase in H3K27me3 and H3K9me3 at EWS-FLI1 target genes. These effects only occur at high concentrations of trabectedin leading to suppression of EWS-FLI1 target genes and a loss of cell viability. In vivo, low-dose irinotecan is required to improve the magnitude, penetrance, and duration of target suppression in the three-dimensional architecture of the tumor leading to differentiation of the Ewing sarcoma xenograft into benign mesenchymal tissue.Conclusions:These data provide the justification to evaluate trabectedin in the clinic on a short infusion schedule in combination with low-dose irinotecan with 18F-FLT PET imaging in patients with Ewing sarcoma.

Mutations in thePHIP/BRWD2chromatin regulator cause the human neurodevelopmental disorder Chung-Jansen syndrome, while alterations inPHIPexpression are linked to cancer. Precisely how PHIP functions in these contexts is not fully understood. Here we demonstrate that PHIP is a chromatin-associated CRL4 ubiquitin ligase substrate receptor and is required for CRL4 recruitment to chromatin. PHIP binds to chromatin through a trivalent reader domain consisting of a H3K4-methyl binding Tudor domain and two bromodomains (BD1 and BD2). Using semisynthetic nucleosomes with defined histone post-translational modifications, we characterize PHIPs BD1 and BD2 as respective readers of H3K14ac and H4K12ac, and identify human disease-associated mutations in each domain and the intervening linker region that likely disrupt chromatin binding. These findings provide new insight into the biological function of this enigmatic chromatin protein and set the stage for the identification of both upstream chromatin modifiers and downstream targets of PHIP in human disease.

The 5-carbon positions on cytosine nucleotides preceding guanines in genomic DNA (CpG) are common targets for DNA methylation (5mC). DNA methylation removal can occur through both active and passive mechanisms. Ten-eleven translocation enzymes (TETs) oxidize 5mC in a stepwise manner to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC), and 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC). 5mC can also be removed passively through sequential cell divisions in the absence of DNA methylation maintenance. In this chapter, we describe approaches that couple TET-assisted bisulfite (TAB) and oxidative bisulfite (OxBS) conversion to the Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChIP (EPIC array) and show how these technologies can be used to distinguish active versus passive DNA demethylation. We also describe integrative bioinformatics pipelines to facilitate this analysis.

The anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase and critical regulator of cell cycle progression. Despite its vital role, it has remained challenging to globally map APC/C substrates. By combining orthogonal features of known substrates, we predicted APC/C substrates in silico. This analysis identified many known substrates and suggested numerous candidates. Unexpectedly, chromatin regulatory proteins are enriched among putative substrates, and we show experimentally that several chromatin proteins bind APC/C, oscillate during the cell cycle, and are degraded following APC/C activation, consistent with being direct APC/C substrates. Additional analysis revealed detailed mechanisms of ubiquitylation for UHRF1, a key chromatin regulator involved in histone ubiquitylation and DNA methylation maintenance. Disrupting UHRF1 degradation at mitotic exit accelerates G1-phase cell cycle progression and perturbs global DNA methylation patterning in the genome. We conclude that APC/C coordinates crosstalk between cell cycle and chromatin regulatory proteins. This has potential consequences in normal cell physiology, where the chromatin environment changes depending on proliferative state, as well as in disease., This study shows that the cell cycle E3 ubiquitin ligase APC/C is a regulator of several chromatin regulatory proteins, including the multivalent epigenetic reader and writer UHRF1. Perturbing UHRF1 ubiquitylation and degradation alters cell cycle and DNA methylation patterning, pointing to a key role for cell cycle degradation in shaping chromatin environments.

The chromatin-binding E3 ubiquitin ligase ubiquitin-like with PHD and RING finger domains 1 (UHRF1) contributes to the maintenance of aberrant DNA methylation patterning in cancer cells through multivalent histone and DNA recognition. The tandem Tudor domain (TTD) of UHRF1 is well-characterized as a reader of lysine 9 di- and tri-methylation on histone H3 (H3K9me2/me3) and, more recently, lysine 126 di- and tri-methylation on DNA ligase 1 (LIG1K126me2/me3). However, the functional significance and selectivity of these interactions remain unclear. In this study, we used protein domain microarrays to search for additional readers of LIG1K126me2, the preferred methyl state bound by the UHRF1 TTD. We show that the UHRF1 TTD binds LIG1K126me2 with high affinity and selectivity compared to other known methyllysine readers. Notably, and unlike H3K9me2/me3, the UHRF1 plant homeodomain (PHD) and its N-terminal linker (L2) do not contribute to multivalent LIG1K126me2 recognition along with the TTD. To test the functional significance of this interaction, we designed a LIG1K126me2 cell-penetrating peptide (CPP). Consistent with LIG1 knockdown, uptake of the CPP had no significant effect on the propagation of DNA methylation patterning across the genomes of bulk populations from high-resolution analysis of several cancer cell lines. Further, we did not detect significant changes in DNA methylation patterning from bulk cell populations after chemical or genetic disruption of lysine methyltransferase activity associated with LIG1K126me2 and H3K9me2. Collectively, these studies identify UHRF1 as a selective reader of LIG1K126me2 in vitro and further implicate the histone and non-histone methyllysine reader activity of the UHRF1 TTD as a dispensable domain function for cancer cell DNA methylation maintenance.

Some chemotherapeutic agents which cause loss of DNA methylation have been recently shown to induce a state of “viral mimicry” involving upregulation of endogenous retroviruses (ERV) and a subsequent innate immune response. This approach may be useful in combination with immune checkpoint cancer therapies, but relatively little is known about normal cellular control of ERV suppression. The UHRF1 protein can interact with the maintenance methylation protein DNMT1 and is known to play an important role in epigenetic control in the cell. To examine potential roles of this protein in differentiated cells, we first established stable knockdowns in normal human lung fibroblasts. While these knockdown cells showed the expected loss of DNA methylation genome-wide, transcriptional changes were instead dominated by a single response, namely activation of innate immune signalling, consistent with viral mimicry. We confirmed using mechanistic approaches that activation of interferons and interferon-stimulated genes involved in double-stranded RNA detection was crucial to the response. ERVs were demethylated and transcriptionally activated in UHRF1 knockdown cells. As in these normal cell lines, ERV activation and interferon response also occurred following the transient loss of UHRF1 in both melanoma and colon cancer cell lines. Restoring UHRF1 in either transient- or stable knockdown systems abrogated ERV reactivation and interferon response, but without substantial restoration of DNA methylation. Rescued cell lines were hypersensitive to depletion of SETDB1, implicating H3K9me3 as crucial to UHRF1-mediated repression in the absence of DNA methylation. Confirming this, cells rescued with UHRF1 containing point mutations affecting H3K9me3 binding could not mediate silencing of ERV transcription or the innate immune response. Finally, by introducing similar point mutations in the mouse homologue, we could show that this pathway is conserved in mice. Our results therefore implicate UHRF1 as a key regulator of ERV suppression and strengthen the basis for cancer cell hypomethylation therapy.

Chromatin functions are influenced by the addition, removal, and recognition of histone post-translational modifications (PTMs). Ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like (UBL) PTMs on histone proteins can function as signaling molecules by mediating protein–protein interactions. Fueled by the identification of novel ubiquitin and UBL sites and the characterization of the writers, erasers, and readers, the breadth of chromatin functions associated with ubiquitin signaling is emerging. Here, we highlight recently appreciated roles for histone ubiquitination in DNA methylation control, PTM crosstalk, nucleosome structure, and phase separation. We also discuss the expanding diversity and functions associated with histone UBL modifications. We conclude with a look toward the future and pose key questions that will drive continued discovery at the interface of epigenetics and ubiquitin signaling.

Tazemetostat is the first epigenetic therapy to gain FDA approval in a solid tumor. This lysine methyltransferase inhibitor targets EZH2, the enzymatic subunit of the PRC2 transcriptional silencing complex. Tumors with mutations in subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, inclusive of most epithelioid sarcomas, are sensitive to EZH2 inhibition.

The Anaphase-Promoting Complex/Cyclosome (APC/C) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase and critical regulator of cell cycle progression. Despite its vital role, it has remained challenging to globally map APC/C substrates. By combining orthogonal features of known substrates, we predicted APC/C substratesin silico. This analysis identified many known substrates and suggested numerous candidates. Unexpectedly, chromatin regulatory proteins are enriched among putative substrates and we show that several chromatin proteins bind APC/C, oscillate during the cell cycle and are degraded following APC/C activation, consistent with being direct APC/C substrates. Additional analysis revealed detailed mechanisms of ubiquitylation for UHRF1, a key chromatin regulator involved in histone ubiquitylation and DNA methylation maintenance. Disrupting UHRF1 degradation at mitotic exit accelerates G1-phase cell cycle progression and perturbs global DNA methylation patterning in the genome. We conclude that APC/C coordinates crosstalk between cell cycle and chromatin regulatory proteins. This has potential consequences in normal cell physiology, where the chromatin environment changes depending on proliferative state, as well as in disease.

Lysine methylation facilitates protein-protein interactions through the activity of methyllysine (Kme) “reader” proteins. Functions of Kme readers have historically been studied in the context of histone interactions, where readers aid in chromatin-templated processes such as transcription, DNA replication and repair. However, there is growing evidence that Kme readers also function through interactions with non-histone proteins. To facilitate expanded study of Kme reader activities, we developed a high-throughput binding assay to reveal the sequence determinants of Kme-driven protein interactions. The assay queries a degenerate methylated lysine-oriented peptide library (Kme-OPL) to identify the key residues that modulate reader binding. The assay recapitulated methyl order and amino acid sequence preferences associated with histone Kme readers. The assay also revealed methylated sequences that bound Kme readers with higher affinity than histones. Proteome-wide scoring was applied to assay results to help prioritize future study of Kme reader interactions. The platform was also used to design sequences that directed specificity among closely related reader domains, an application which may have utility in the development of peptidomimetic inhibitors. Furthermore, we used the platform to identify binding determinants of site-specific histone Kme antibodies and surprisingly revealed that only a few amino acids drove epitope recognition. Collectively, these studies introduce and validate a rapid, unbiased, and high-throughput binding assay for Kme readers, and we envision its use as a resource for expanding the study of Kme-driven protein interactions.

Significance DNA methylation and histone posttranslational modifications are key epigenetic marks that contribute to the fine-tuned regulation of gene expression and other chromatin-templated biological processes. Here, we build artificial chromatin templates and reveal key chromatin structural features and epigenetic marks that coordinately regulate the binding and enzymatic activity of the DNA methylation regulator UHRF1. Studying activities of epigenetic regulators in the context of defined chromatin templates, particularly for multidomain histone and DNA binding proteins such as UHRF1, is critical for understanding molecular mechanisms of epigenetic crosstalk and mechanics regulating epigenetic signaling, and for determining how epigenetic dysregulation contributes to human disease., Mitotic inheritance of DNA methylation patterns is facilitated by UHRF1, a DNA- and histone-binding E3 ubiquitin ligase that helps recruit the maintenance DNA methyltransferase DNMT1 to replicating chromatin. The DNA methylation maintenance function of UHRF1 is dependent on its ability to bind chromatin, where it facilitates monoubiquitination of histone H3 at lysines 18 and 23, a docking site for DNMT1. Because of technical limitations, this model of UHRF1-dependent DNA methylation inheritance has been constructed largely based on genetics and biochemical observations querying methylated DNA oligonucleotides, synthetic histone peptides, and heterogeneous chromatin extracted from cells. Here, we construct semisynthetic mononucleosomes harboring defined histone and DNA modifications and perform rigorous analysis of UHRF1 binding and enzymatic activity with these reagents. We show that multivalent engagement of nucleosomal linker DNA and dimethylated lysine 9 on histone H3 directs UHRF1 ubiquitin ligase activity toward histone substrates. Notably, we reveal a molecular switch, stimulated by recognition of hemimethylated DNA, which redirects UHRF1 ubiquitin ligase activity away from histones in favor of robust autoubiquitination. Our studies support a noncompetitive model for UHRF1 and DNMT1 chromatin recruitment to replicating chromatin and define a role for hemimethylated linker DNA as a regulator of UHRF1 ubiquitin ligase substrate selectivity.

UHRF1 is a histone- and DNA-binding E3 ubiquitin ligase that functions with DNMT1 to maintain mammalian DNA methylation. UHRF1 facilitates DNMT1 recruitment to replicating chromatin through a coordinated mechanism involving histone and DNA recognition and histone ubiquitination. UHRF2 shares structural homology with UHRF1, but surprisingly lacks functional redundancy to facilitate DNA methylation maintenance. Molecular mechanisms uncoupling UHRF2 from DNA methylation maintenance are poorly defined. Through comprehensive and comparative biochemical analysis of recombinant human UHRF1 and UHRF2 reader and writer activities, we reveal conserved modes of histone PTM recognition but divergent DNA binding properties. While UHRF1 and UHRF2 diverge in their affinities toward hemi-methylated DNA, we surprisingly show that both hemi-methylated and hemi-hydroxymethylated DNA oligonucleotides stimulate UHRF2 ubiquitin ligase activity toward histone H3 peptide substrates. This is the first example of an E3 ligase allosterically regulated by DNA hydroxymethylation. However, UHRF2 is not a productive histone E3 ligase toward purified mononucleosomes, suggesting UHRF2 has an intra-domain architecture distinct from UHRF1 that is conformationally constrained when bound to chromatin. Collectively, our studies reveal that uncoupling of UHRF2 from the DNA methylation maintenance program is linked to differences in the molecular readout of chromatin signatures that connect UHRF1 to ubiquitination of histone H3.

Bromodomains (BD) are conserved reader modules that bind acetylated lysine residues on histones. Although much has been learned regarding the in vitro properties of these domains, less is known about their function within chromatin complexes. SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complexes modulate transcription and contribute to DNA damage repair. Mutations in SWI/SNF subunits have been implicated in many cancers. Here we demonstrate that the BD of Caenorhabditis elegans SMARCA4/BRG1, a core SWI/SNF subunit, recognizes acetylated lysine 14 of histone H3 (H3K14ac), similar to its Homo sapiens ortholog. We identify the interactions of SMARCA4 with the acetylated histone peptide from a 1.29 Å-resolution crystal structure of the CeSMARCA4 BD–H3K14ac complex. Significantly, most of the SMARCA4 BD residues in contact with the histone peptide are conserved with other proteins containing family VIII bromodomains. Based on the premise that binding specificity is conserved among bromodomain orthologs, we propose that loop residues outside of the binding pocket position contact residues to recognize the H3K14ac sequence. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated mutations in the SMARCA4 BD that abolish H3K14ac binding in vitro had little or no effect on C. elegans viability or physiological function in vivo. However, combining SMARCA4 BD mutations with knockdown of the SWI/SNF accessory subunit PBRM-1 resulted in severe developmental defects in animals. In conclusion, we demonstrated an essential function for the SWI/SNF bromodomain in vivo and detected potential redundancy in epigenetic readers in regulating chromatin remodeling. These findings have implications for the development of small-molecule BD inhibitors to treat cancers and other diseases.

Summary: DNA methylation plays crucial roles in chromatin structure and gene expression. Aberrant DNA methylation patterns, including global hypomethylation and regional hypermethylation, are associated with cancer and implicated in oncogenic events. How DNA methylation is regulated in developmental and cellular processes and dysregulated in cancer is poorly understood. Here, we show that PRMT6, a protein arginine methyltransferase responsible for asymmetric dimethylation of histone H3 arginine 2 (H3R2me2a), negatively regulates DNA methylation and that PRMT6 upregulation contributes to global DNA hypomethylation in cancer. Mechanistically, PRMT6 overexpression impairs chromatin association of UHRF1, an accessory factor of DNMT1, resulting in passive DNA demethylation. The effect is likely due to elevated H3R2me2a, which inhibits the interaction between UHRF1 and histone H3. Our work identifies a mechanistic link between protein arginine methylation and DNA methylation, which is disrupted in cancer. : Veland et al. find that PRMT6, an arginine methyltransferase responsible for histone H3 arginine 2 (H3R2) methylation, negatively regulates maintenance DNA methylation by impairing UHRF1 recruitment to chromatin. The authors also find that PRMT6 upregulation contributes to global DNA hypomethylation in cancer cells. Keywords: PRMT6, arginine methylation, UHRF1, DNMT1, DNA methylation, cancer

Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by next-generation sequencing (ChIP-seq) is a key technique for mapping the distribution and relative abundance of histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and chromatin-associated factors across genomes. There is a perceived challenge regarding the ability to quantitatively plot ChIP-seq data, and as such, approaches making use of exogenous additives, or “spike-ins” have recently been developed. Relying on the fact that the IP step of ChIP-seq is a competitive binding reaction, we present a quantitative framework for ChIP-seq analysis that circumvents the need to modify standard sample preparation pipelines with spike-in reagents. We also introduce a visualization technique that, when paired with our formal developments, produces a much more rich characterization of sequencing data.

Histone methyltransferase MLL4 is centrally involved in transcriptional regulation and is often mutated in human diseases, including cancer and developmental disorders. MLL4 contains a catalytic SET domain that mono-methylates histone H3K4 and seven PHD fingers of unclear function. Here, we identify the PHD6 finger of MLL4 (MLL4-PHD6) as a selective reader of the epigenetic modification H4K16ac. The solution NMR structure of MLL4-PHD6 in complex with a H4K16ac peptide along with binding and mutational analyses reveal unique mechanistic features underlying recognition of H4K16ac. Genomic studies show that one third of MLL4 chromatin binding sites overlap with H4K16ac-enriched regions in vivo and that MLL4 occupancy in a set of genomic targets depends on the acetyltransferase activity of MOF, a H4K16ac-specific acetyltransferase. The recognition of H4K16ac is conserved in the PHD7 finger of paralogous MLL3. Together, our findings reveal a previously uncharacterized acetyllysine reader and suggest that selective targeting of H4K16ac by MLL4 provides a direct functional link between MLL4, MOF and H4K16 acetylation., Histone methyltransferase MLL4 is a transcriptional regulator. Here the authors identify the PHD6 finger of MLL4 as a selective reader of the epigenetic modification H4K16ac and show that a subset of MLL4 chromatin binding sites overlap with H4K16ac-enriched regions, which depends on MOF activity.

Summary UHRF1 facilitates the establishment and maintenance of DNA methylation patterns in mammalian cells. The establishment domains are defined, including E3 ligase function, but the maintenance domains are poorly characterized. Here, we demonstrate that UHRF1 histone- and hemimethylated DNA binding functions, but not E3 ligase activity, maintain cancer-specific DNA methylation in human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Disrupting either chromatin reader activity reverses DNA hypermethylation, reactivates epigenetically silenced tumor suppressor genes (TSGs), and reduces CRC oncogenic properties. Moreover, an inverse correlation between high UHRF1 and low TSG expression tracks with CRC progression and reduced patient survival. Defining critical UHRF1 domain functions and its relationship with CRC prognosis suggests directions for, and value of, targeting this protein to develop therapeutic DNA demethylating agents.

Summary Acetylation of the histone variant H2A.Z (H2A.Zac) occurs at active regulatory regions associated with gene expression. Although the Tip60 complex is proposed to acetylate H2A.Z, functional studies suggest additional enzymes are involved. Here, we show that p300 acetylates H2A.Z at multiple lysines. In contrast, we found that although Tip60 does not efficiently acetylate H2A.Z in vitro, genetic inhibition of Tip60 reduces H2A.Zac in cells. Importantly, we found that interaction between the p300-bromodomain and H4 acetylation (H4ac) enhances p300-driven H2A.Zac. Indeed, H2A.Zac and H4ac show high genomic overlap, especially at active promoters. We also reveal unique chromatin features and transcriptional states at enhancers correlating with co-occurrence or exclusivity of H4ac and H2A.Zac. We propose that differential H4 and H2A.Z acetylation signatures can also define the enhancer state. In conclusion, we show both Tip60 and p300 contribute to H2A.Zac and reveal molecular mechanisms of writer/reader crosstalk between H2A.Z and H4 acetylation through p300., Graphical Abstract, Highlights • p300 acetylates H2A.Z at multiple N-terminal lysine residues • Interaction of p300 bromodomain with H4ac enhances H2A.Zac • H2A.Zac and H4ac co-localize at active regulatory regions • H4ac and H2A.Zac differential signature can define the enhancer state, Biological Sciences; Biochemistry; Molecular Biology; Cell Biology

Pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) self-renew or differentiate into all tissues of the developing embryo and cell-specification factors are necessary to balance gene expression. Here we delineate the function of the PHD-finger protein 5a (Phf5a) in ESC self-renewal and ascribe its role in regulating pluripotency, cellular reprogramming, and myoblast specification. We demonstrate that Phf5a is essential for maintaining pluripotency, since depleted ESCs exhibit hallmarks of differentiation. Mechanistically, we attribute Phf5a function to the stabilization of the Paf1 transcriptional complex and control of RNA polymerase II elongation on pluripotency loci. Apart from an ESC-specific factor, we demonstrate that Phf5a controls differentiation of adult myoblasts. Our findings suggest a potent mode of regulation by the Phf5a in stem cells, which directs their transcriptional program ultimately regulating maintenance of pluripotency and cellular reprogramming.

MORC3 is linked to inflammatory myopathies and cancer, however the precise role of MORC3 in normal cell physiology and disease remains poorly understood. Here, we present detailed genetic, biochemical, and structural analyses of MORC3. We demonstrate that MORC3 is significantly upregulated in Down syndrome, and that genetic abnormalities in MORC3 are associated with cancer. The CW domain of MORC3 binds to the methylated histone H3K4 tail, and this interaction is essential for the recruitment of MORC3 to chromatin and accumulation in nuclear bodies. We show that MORC3 possesses intrinsic ATPase activity that requires DNA however is negatively regulated by CW, which interacts with the ATPase domain. Natively linked CW impedes binding of the ATPase domain to DNA, resulting in a decrease in the DNA-stimulated enzymatic activity. Collectively, our studies provide a molecular framework detailing newly identified functions of MORC3 and suggest that its modulation may contribute to human disease.

Histone acetylation levels are regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) that antagonistically control the overall balance of this post-translational modification. HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) are potent agents that disrupt this balance and are used clinically to treat diseases including cancer. Despite their use, little is known about their effects on chromatin regulators, particularly those that signal through lysine acetylation. We apply quantitative genomic and proteomic approaches to demonstrate that HDACi robustly increases a low-abundance histone 4 polyacetylation state, which serves as a preferred binding substrate for several bromodomain-containing proteins, including BRD4. Increased H4 polyacetylation occurs in transcribed genes and correlates with the targeting of BRD4. Collectively, these results suggest that HDAC inhibition functions, at least in part, through expansion of a rare histone acetylation state, which then retargets lysine-acetyl readers associated with changes in gene expression, partially mimicking the effect of bromodomain inhibition.

DNA methylation promotes transcription DNA methylation generally represses transcription, but in some instances, it has also been implicated in transcription activation. Harris et al. identified a protein complex in Arabidopsis that is recruited to chromatin by DNA methylation. This complex specifically activated the transcription of genes that are already mildly transcribed but had no effect on transcriptionally silent genes such as transposable elements. The complex thereby counteracts the repression effect caused by transposon insertion in neighboring genes while leaving transposons silent. Thus, by balancing both repressive and activating transcriptional effects, DNA methylation can act to fine-tune gene expression. Science , this issue p. 1182

Mapping lysine methyltransferase substrate selectivity reveals gaps in the proteome-wide curation of lysine methylomes., Lysine methylation is a key regulator of histone protein function. Beyond histones, few connections have been made to the enzymes responsible for the deposition of these posttranslational modifications. Here, we debut a high-throughput functional proteomics platform that maps the sequence determinants of lysine methyltransferase (KMT) substrate selectivity without a priori knowledge of a substrate or target proteome. We demonstrate the predictive power of this approach for identifying KMT substrates, generating scaffolds for inhibitor design, and predicting the impact of missense mutations on lysine methylation signaling. By comparing KMT selectivity profiles to available lysine methylome datasets, we reveal a disconnect between preferred KMT substrates and the ability to detect these motifs using standard mass spectrometry pipelines. Collectively, our studies validate the use of this platform for guiding the study of lysine methylation signaling and suggest that substantial gaps exist in proteome-wide curation of lysine methylomes.

DNA methylation by de novo DNA methyltransferases 3A (DNMT3A) and 3B (DNMT3B) at cytosines is essential for genome regulation and development. Dysregulation of this process is implicated in various diseases, notably cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying DNMT3 substrate recognition and enzymatic specificity remain elusive. Here we report a 2.65-angstrom crystal structure of the DNMT3A-DNMT3L-DNA complex in which two DNMT3A monomers simultaneously attack two cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) dinucleotides, with the target sites separated by 14 base pairs within the same DNA duplex. The DNMT3A-DNA interaction involves a target recognition domain, a catalytic loop, and DNMT3A homodimeric interface. Arg836 of the target recognition domain makes crucial contacts with CpG, ensuring DNMT3A enzymatic preference towards CpG sites in cells. Haematological cancer-associated somatic mutations of the substrate-binding residues decrease DNMT3A activity, induce CpG hypomethylation, and promote transformation of haematopoietic cells. Together, our study reveals the mechanistic basis for DNMT3A-mediated DNA methylation and establishes its aetiological link to human disease.

The key sensor of energy status in mammalian cells, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), can also be activated by the AMP analog aminoimidazolecarboxamide nucleoside monophosphate (ZMP) generated directly from aminoimidazolecarboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR) or from inhibition of purine synthesis by the antifolate pemetrexed (PTX), a drug used extensively in the treatment of lung cancers. Despite this common mechanism, signaling downstream of AMPK activated by PTX or AICAR differed. AICAR-activated AMPK inhibited mTORC1 both directly by phosphorylation of the mTORC1 subunit Raptor and indirectly by phosphorylation of the regulator TSC2. In contrast, PTX-activated AMPK inhibited mTORC1 solely through Raptor phosphorylation. This dichotomy was due to p53 function. Transcription of p53 target genes, including TSC2, was activated by AICAR but not by PTX. Although both PTX and AICAR stabilized p53, only AICAR activated Chk2 phosphorylation, stimulating p53-dependent transcription. However, Raptor phosphorylation by AMPK was independent of p53 and was sufficient, after PTX treatment, to inhibit mTORC1. We concluded that PTX effects on mTORC1 were independent of TSC2 and p53 and that the activation of a p53 transcriptional response by AICAR was due to an activation of Chk2 that was not elicited by PTX.

Plant homeodomain (PHD) finger-containing proteins are implicated in fundamental biological processes, including transcriptional activation and repression, DNA damage repair, cell differentiation, and survival. The PHD finger functions as an epigenetic reader that binds to posttranslationally modified or unmodified histone H3 tails, recruiting catalytic writers and erasers and other components of the epigenetic machinery to chromatin. Despite the critical role of the histone-PHD interaction in normal and pathological processes, selective inhibitors of this association have not been well developed. Here we demonstrate that macrocyclic calixarenes can disrupt binding of PHD fingers to methylated lysine 4 of histone H3 in vitro and in vivo. The inhibitory activity relies on differences in binding affinities of the PHD fingers for H3K4me and the methylation state of the histone ligand, whereas the composition of the aromatic H3K4me-binding site of the PHD fingers appears to have no effect. Our approach provides a novel tool for studying the biological roles of methyllysine readers in epigenetic signaling.

SummaryThe protein stability and chromatin functions of UHRF1 (ubiquitin-like, containing PHD and RING finger domains, 1) are regulated in a cell-cycle-dependent manner. We report a structural characterization of the complex between UHRF1 and the deubiquitinase USP7. The first two UBL domains of USP7 bind to the polybasic region (PBR) of UHRF1, and this interaction is required for the USP7-mediated deubiquitination of UHRF1. Importantly, we find that the USP7-binding site of the UHRF1 PBR overlaps with the region engaging in an intramolecular interaction with the N-terminal tandem Tudor domain (TTD). We show that the USP7-UHRF1 interaction perturbs the TTD-PBR interaction of UHRF1, thereby shifting the conformation of UHRF1 from a TTD-“occluded” state to a state open for multivalent histone binding. Consistently, introduction of a USP7-interaction-defective mutation to UHRF1 significantly reduces its chromatin association. Together, these results link USP7 interaction to the dynamic deubiquitination and chromatin association of UHRF1.

Histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) are important genomic regulators often studied by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), whereby their locations and relative abundance are inferred by antibody capture of nucleosomes and associated DNA. However, the specificity of antibodies within these experiments have not been systematically studied. Here, we use histone peptide arrays and internally calibrated ChIP (ICeChIP) to characterize 52 commercial antibodies purported to distinguish the H3K4 methylforms (me1, me2, and me3, with each ascribed distinct biological functions). We find that many widely-used antibodies poorly distinguish the methylforms and that high- and low-specificity reagents can yield dramatically different biological interpretations, resulting in substantial divergence from the literature for numerous H3K4 methylform paradigms. Using ICeChIP, we also discern quantitative relationships between enhancer H3K4 methylation and promoter transcriptional output and can measure global PTM abundance changes. Our results illustrate how poor antibody specificity contributes to the “reproducibility crisis,” demonstrating the need for rigorous, platform-appropriate validation.

Mitosis encompasses key molecular changes including chromatin condensation, nuclear envelope breakdown, and reduced transcription levels. Immediately after mitosis, the interphase chromatin structure is reestablished and transcription resumes. The reestablishment of the interphase chromatin is probably achieved by ‘bookmarking’,i.e., the retention of at least partial information during mitosis. Yet, while recent studies demonstrate that chromatin accessibility is generally preserved during mitosis and is only locally modulated, the exact details of the bookmarking process and its components are still unclear. To gain a deeper understanding of the mitotic bookmarking process, we merged proteomics, immunofluorescence, and ChIP-seq approaches to study the mitotic and interphase genomic organization of human cells. We focused on key histone modifications and employed HeLa-S3 cells as a model system. Generally, we observed a global concordance between the genomic organization of histone modifications in interphase and mitosis, yet the abundance of the two types of modifications we investigated was different. Whereas histone methylation patterns remain highly similar, histone acetylation patterns show a general reduction while maintaining their genomic organization. These results demonstrate that the epigenomic landscape can serve as a major component of the mitotic bookmarking process. Next, to further investigate mitosis-associated chromatin changes, we followed up on previous studies that showed that nucleosome depleted regions (NDRs) become occupied by a nucleosome during mitosis. Surprisingly, we observed that the nucleosome introduced into the NDR during mitosis encompasses a distinctive set of histone modifications, differentiating it from the surrounding nucleosomes. We show that the nucleosomes near the NDR appear to both shift into the NDR during mitosis and adopt a unique modification pattern. HDAC inhibition by the small molecule TSA reverts this pattern. These results provide evidence for a mitotic deposition and change in the modifications of the nucleosomes surrounding the NDR. Altogether, by merging multiple approaches, our study provides evidence to support a model where mitotic bookmarking is achieved by histone modifications and uncovers new insights into the deposition of nucleosomes during mitosis.

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) on histone proteins are widely studied for their roles in regulating chromatin structure and gene expression. The mass production and distribution of antibodies specific to histone PTMs has greatly facilitated research on these marks. As histone PTM antibodies are key reagents for many chromatin biochemistry applications, rigorous analysis of antibody specificity is necessary for accurate data interpretation and continued progress in the field. This protocol describes an integrated pipeline for the design, fabrication and use of peptide microarrays for profiling the specificity of histone antibodies. The design and analysis aspects of this procedure are facilitated by ArrayNinja, an open-source and interactive software package we recently developed to streamline the customization of microarray print formats. This pipeline has been used to screen a large number of commercially available and widely used histone PTM antibodies, and data generated from these experiments are freely available through an online and expanding Histone Antibody Specificity Database. Beyond histones, the general methodology described herein can be applied broadly to the analysis of PTM-specific antibodies.

Rice D53 repression motif links two sites of TPL corepressors to mediate TPL oligomerization and nucleosome association., TOPLESS are tetrameric plant corepressors of the conserved Tup1/Groucho/TLE (transducin-like enhancer of split) family. We show that they interact through their TOPLESS domains (TPDs) with two functionally important ethylene response factor–associated amphiphilic repression (EAR) motifs of the rice strigolactone signaling repressor D53: the universally conserved EAR-3 and the monocot-specific EAR-2. We present the crystal structure of the monocot-specific EAR-2 peptide in complex with the TOPLESS-related protein 2 (TPR2) TPD, in which the EAR-2 motif binds the same TPD groove as jasmonate and auxin signaling repressors but makes additional contacts with a second TPD site to mediate TPD tetramer-tetramer interaction. We validated the functional relevance of the two TPD binding sites in reporter gene assays and in transgenic rice and demonstrate that EAR-2 binding induces TPD oligomerization. Moreover, we demonstrate that the TPD directly binds nucleosomes and the tails of histones H3 and H4. Higher-order assembly of TPD complexes induced by EAR-2 binding markedly stabilizes the nucleosome-TPD interaction. These results establish a new TPD-repressor binding mode that promotes TPD oligomerization and TPD-nucleosome interaction, thus illustrating the initial assembly of a repressor-corepressor-nucleosome complex.

SUMMARY A role for cancer cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer is well established. Here, we show that, in addition to cancer cell EMT, ovarian cancer cell metastasis relies on an epigenomic mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) in host mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These reprogrammed MSCs, termed carcinoma-associated MSCs (CA-MSCs), acquire pro-tumorigenic functions and directly bind cancer cells to serve as a metastatic driver/chaperone. Cancer cells induce this epigenomic MET characterized by enhancer-enriched DNA hypermethylation, altered chromatin accessibility, and differential histone modifications. This phenomenon appears clinically relevant, as CA-MSC MET is highly correlated with patient survival. Mechanistically, mirroring MET observed in development, MET in CA-MSCs is mediated by WT1 and EZH2. Importantly, EZH2 inhibitors, which are clinically available, significantly inhibited CA-MSC-mediated metastasis in mouse models of ovarian cancer., Graphical Abstract, In Brief Fan et al. demonstrate that ovarian cancer reprograms the epigenome of stromal cells, inducing a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) to form carcinoma-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSCs). This MET, mediated by WT1 and EZH2, enables CA-MSC:cancer cell co-metastasis. EZH2 inhibition decreases CA-MSC-mediated metastasis, presenting a potential therapeutic opportunity in ovarian cancer.

A major mechanism regulating the accessibility and function of eukaryotic genomes are the covalent modifications to DNA and histone proteins that dependably package our genetic information inside the nucleus of every cell. Formally postulated over a decade ago, it is becoming increasingly clear that post-translational modifications (PTMs) on histones act singly and in combination to form a language or 'code' that is read by specialized proteins to facilitate downstream functions in chromatin. Underappreciated at the time was the level of complexity harbored both within histone PTMs and their combinations, as well as within the proteins that read and interpret the language. In addition to histone PTMs, newly-identified DNA modifications that can recruit specific effector proteins have raised further awareness that histone PTMs operate within a broader language of epigenetic modifications to orchestrate the dynamic functions associated with chromatin. Here, we highlight key recent advances in our understanding of the epigenetic language encompassing histone and DNA modifications and foreshadow challenges that lie ahead as we continue our quest to decipher the fundamental mechanisms of chromatin regulation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Molecular mechanisms of histone modification function.

How epigenetic information is transmitted from generation to generation remains largely unknown. Deletion of the C. elegans Histone H3 lysine 4 dimethyl (H3K4me2) demethylase spr-5 leads to inherited accumulation of the euchromatic H3K4me2 mark and progressive decline in fertility. Here we identified multiple chromatin-modifying factors, including novel H3K4me1/me2 and H3K9me3 methyltransferases, an H3K9me3 demethylase and an H3K9me reader, which either suppress or accelerate the progressive transgenerational phenotypes of spr-5 mutant worms. Our findings uncover a network of chromatin regulators that control the trans-generational flow of epigenetic information, and suggest that the balance between euchromatic H3K4 and heterochromatic H3K9 methylation regulates trans-generational effects on fertility.

Reversing the DNA methylation abnormalities by targeting the maintenance DNA methylation machinery represents a sought-after therapy paradigm in both liquid and solid tumors. UHRF1, a multi-domain protein with both chromatin reader and writer functions, is essential for targeting DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) to replicating DNA to maintain DNA methylation in both normal and cancer cells. Dysregulation of the DNMT1-UHRF1 axis is being increasingly linked to malignant transformation and progression across cancer types. Our recent study shows that UHRF1 depletion, alone or in combination with low doses of a DNMT inhibitor, effectively induces DNA demethylation and tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) reactivation. These findings collectively suggest UHRF1 represents a promising target for developing next-generation DNA demethylation agents for cancer therapy. Understanding the collective contribution of UHRF1’s domains for maintenance methylation is essential for the major translational goal of blocking maintenance of abnormal DNA methylation in established cancers and throughout cancer initiation and progression. While the UHRF1 domains responsible for de novo or re-methylation have been identified, the domain requirements specifically for maintaining normal and cancer-specific DNA methylation are poorly characterized. Herein, by developing a carefully timed genetic complementation assay, we systematically interrogate the roles for each major domain of UHRF1 for maintaining genome-wide DNA methylation in human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Distinct from the domain required for establishing methylation, we find that UHRF1 histone-binding and hemimethylated DNA reader domains, but not E3 ligase activity, are essential for maintaining cancer-specific DNA methylation in both HCT116 and RKO cells. Disrupting either one of the essential domains phenocopies UHRF1 depletion for global DNA demethylation and reactivation of epigenetically silenced TSGs. Supporting the essential roles of abnormal DNA methylation in sustaining the key oncogenic properties of CRC cells, we further show genetic perturbation of either histone- or hemimethylated DNA-binding activities of UHRF1 dramatically impairs CRC proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, for eight UHRF1 chromatin-reader domain regulated TSGs, we reveal a strong negative correlation between high UHRF1 expression, promoter hypermethylation, and their low expression with disease progression and overall survival in CRC patients in both TCGA and two independent CRC cohorts (n=363 and 390, respectively). Taken together, our data identify important differences from domains dominant for de novo DNA methylation, and provide important implications for the oncogenic functions of UHRF1 in CRC, and for credentialing UHRF1 as a desirable target for cancer drug development and means to personalize this. Citation Format: Xiangqian Kong, Jie Chen, Wenbing Xie, Stephen M. Brown, Yi Cai, Kaichun Wu, Daiming Fan, Yongzhan Nie, Yong Tao, Ray-Whay Chiu Yen, Hariharan Easwaran, Michael J. Topper, Scott B. Rothbart, Limin Xia, Stephen B. Baylin. Defining UHRF1 domains that support maintenance of human colon cancer DNA methylation and tumorigenicity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 947.