Functions of DNA methyltransferase 3-like in germ cells and beyond
Journal
Biology of the Cell
Journal Volume
104
Journal Issue
10
Pages
571-587
Date Issued
2012
Author(s)
Abstract
DNA methyltransferase 3-like (DNMT3L) is one of the key players in de novo DNA methylation of imprinting control elements and retrotransposons, which occurs after genome-wide epigenetic erasure during germ cell development. In this review, we summarise the biochemical properties of DNMT3L and discuss the possible mechanisms behind DNMT3L-mediated imprinting establishment and retrotransposon silencing in germ cells. We also discuss possible connections between DNMT3L and non-coding RNA-mediated epigenetic remodelling, the roles of DNMT3L in germ cell development and the implications in stem cell and cancer research. ? 2012 So?i?t? Francaise des Microscopies and Soci?t? de Biologie Cellulaire de France.
SDGs
Other Subjects
DNA methyltransferase 3A; DNA methyltransferase 3B; DNA methyltransferase 3L; unclassified drug; untranslated RNA; chromatin; DNA methylation; embryonic stem cell; enzyme activity; epigenetics; gene expression; germ cell; knockout mouse; nonhuman; oocyte; preimplantation embryo; priority journal; protein function; retroposon; review; spermatid; spermatocyte; spermatogonium; Animals; DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferase; DNA Methylation; Epigenesis, Genetic; Genome; Genomic Imprinting; Germ Cells; Histone Deacetylases; Histones; Humans; Mice; Neoplasms; Retroelements; Stem Cells
Type
journal article