G-quadruplexes associated with R-loops promote CTCF binding. Wulfridge et al.

Published: 11 July 2023| Version 2 | DOI: 10.17632/gyhk7sd38w.2
Contributors:
Phillip Wulfridge, Kavitha Sarma

Description

CTCF is a critical regulator of genome architecture and gene expression that binds thousands of sites on chromatin. CTCF genomic localization is controlled by recognition of a DNA sequence motif and regulated by DNA modifications. However, CTCF does not bind to all its potential sites in all cell types, raising the question of whether underlying chromatin structure can regulate CTCF occupancy. Here we report that R-loops facilitate CTCF binding through formation of associated G-quadruplex (G4) structures. R-loops and G4s co-localize with CTCF at many genomic regions in mouse embryonic stem cells and promote CTCF binding to its cognate DNA motif in vitro. R-loop attenuation reduces CTCF binding in vivo. Deletion of a specific G4-forming motif in a gene reduces CTCF binding and alters gene expression. Conversely, chemical stabilization of G4s results in CTCF gains and accompanying alterations in chromatin organization, suggesting a pivotal role for G4 structures in reinforcing long-range genome interactions through CTCF.

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Electrophoretic Mobility-Shift Assay, Western Blot, Fluorescence Imaging

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