Investigation of MYST4 histone acetyltransferase and its involvement in mammalian gametogenesis

Abstract

Background: Various histone acetylases (HATs) play a critical role in the regulation of gene expression, but the precise functions of many of those HATs are still unknown. Here we provide evidence that MYST4, a known HAT, may be involved in early mammalian gametogenesis.

Cloning, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of the Novel Acetyltransferase Retrogene Ard1b in the Mouse1

“…Histone (particularly histone H4) hyperacetylation is believed to be an important primer to this remodeling process by facilitating the displacement of histones by protamines [40,41]. Based on the timing of expression and biochemical properties, the involvement of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) (namely, MYST4 and CDY/CDYL) in testicular histone hyperacetylation is subsequently implicated [42,43]. HATs are specific to the e-amino groups of histones.…”

Histone modifications during mammalian oocyte maturation: Dynamics, regulation and functions

“…Immunolocalization study showed that MYST4 protein accumulated in the nucleus of GV oocytes, and then concentrated in the vicinity of meiotic spindle rather than on chromosomes when oocytes reached MI stage. 54 Given the global histone deacetylation in metaphase oocytes, it appears unlikely that MYST4 acetylates histone H3 Pre-MI stage, the phosphorylation levels of both H3/Ser10 and H3/Ser28 promptly increased; however, the differential distribution patterns exist between them.…”

Current Advances in Epigenetic Modification and Alteration during Mammalian Ovarian Folliculogenesis

“…MYST4, a known HAT, may function in mammalian gametogenesis. By immunolocalization in ovary sections, McGraw et al (2007) found that MYST4 was dynamically expressed in follicle cells (granulosa and theca) enclosing the oocyte, as well as in blood vessels. To our knowledge, this is the first time that MYST4 acetylase has been associated with folliculogenesis, and MYST4 is the only HAT described in cells (oocyte, granulosa, and theca cells) related to gamete formation.…”