Abstract
Transcription of the centromeric regions has been reported to occur
in G1 and S phase in different species. Here, we investigate whether
transcription also occurs and plays a functional role at the mammalian
centromere during mitosis. We show the presence of actively
transcribing RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) and its associated transcription
factors, coupled with the production of centromere satellite
transcripts at the mitotic kinetochore. Specific inhibition of RNAPII
activity during mitosis leads to a decrease in centromeric a-satellite
transcription and a concomitant increase in anaphase-lagging cells,
with the lagging chromosomes showing reduced centromere protein
C binding. These findings demonstrate an essential role of RNAPII
in the transcription of a-satellite DNA, binding of centromere
protein C, and the proper functioning of the mitotic kinetochore.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1979 - 1984 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America |
Volume | 109 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |