Polycomb response elements (PREs) are cis-acting DNA elements that mediate epigenetic gene silencing by Polycomb group (PcG) proteins. Here, we report that Pleiohomeotic (PHO) and a multiprotein Polycomb core complex (PCC) bind highly cooperatively to PREs. We identified a conserved sequence motif, named PCC-binding element (PBE), which is required for PcG silencing in vivo. PHO sites and PBEs function as an integrated DNA platform for the synergistic assembly of a repressive PHO/PCC complex. We termed this nucleoprotein complex silenceosome to reflect that the molecular principles underpinning its assemblage are surprisingly similar to those that make an enhanceosome.

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doi.org/10.1101/gad.347005, hdl.handle.net/1765/13882
Genes & Development
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Mohd Sarip, A. B., Cleard, F., Mishra, R., Karch, F., & Verrijzer, P. (2005). Synergistic recognition of an epigenetic DNA element by Pleiohomeotic and a Polycomb core complex. Genes & Development, 19(15), 1755–1760. doi:10.1101/gad.347005