Abstract
Cys2-His2 zinc finger (C2H2-ZF) proteins represent the largest class of putative human transcription factors. However, for most C2H2-ZF proteins it is unknown whether they even bind DNA or, if they do, to which sequences. Here, by combining data from a modified bacterial one-hybrid system with protein-binding microarray and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses, we show that natural C2H2-ZFs encoded in the human genome bind DNA both in vitro and in vivo, and we infer the DNA recognition code using DNA-binding data for thousands of natural C2H2-ZF domains. In vivo binding data are generally consistent with our recognition code and indicate that C2H2-ZF proteins recognize more motifs than all other human transcription factors combined. We provide direct evidence that most KRAB-containing C2H2-ZF proteins bind specific endogenous retroelements (EREs), ranging from currently active to ancient families. The majority of C2H2-ZF proteins, including KRAB proteins, also show widespread binding to regulatory regions, indicating that the human genome contains an extensive and largely unstudied adaptive C2H2-ZF regulatory network that targets a diverse range of genes and pathways.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.