A novel class of evolutionarily conserved genes defined by piwi are essential for stem cell self-renewal

Article Abstract:

The piwi gene, cloned and characterized in Drosophila, is representative of a class of genes necessary for division of germ-line stem cells (GSCs). Homologs to piwi have been isolated in Caenorhabditis elegans and in humans. Arabidopsis has similar genes needed for maintenance of meristem cells. In Drosophila, the piwi gene is needed for asymmetric division of GSCs but not for differentiation of the daughter cells. GSC division appears to be regulated by piwi expression in neighboring somatic cells.

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The hypoxia-responsive transcription factor EPAS1 is essential for catecholamine homeostasis and protection against heart failure during embryonic development

Article Abstract:

Research suggests human fetuses can be protected against heart failure. Mice without the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor EPAS1 die during gestation. This factor is expressed in the organ of Zuckerandl (OZ), which produces catecholamine. Results of this study imply when EPAS1 is expressed in the OZ registers as hypoxia and responds with an altered gene expression, producing proper cardiac function.

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A Rik1-associated, cullin-dependent E3 ubiquitin ligase is essential for heterochromatin formation

Article Abstract:

Mass spectrometry and tandem affinity purification of a Rik1-Tap fusion protein is used to identify Rik1-associated proteins. The study provides evidence for a novel Rik1-associated E3 ubiquitin ligase that is required for heterochromatin formation.

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