MCM complexes are barriers that restrict loops and TADs

Eukaryotic genomes are compacted into loops and topologically associating domains (TADs), which contribute to transcription, recombination and genomic stability. Cohesin extrudes DNA into loops that are thought to lengthen until it encounters CTCF boundaries. Little is known whether loop extrusion is impeded by macromolecular machines. We demonstrate that the replicative helicase MCM is a barrier that restricts loops and TADs in G1 phase. Single-nucleus Hi-C of one-cell embryos revealed that MCM loading reduces CTCF-anchored loops and increases TAD boundary insulation, suggesting loop extrusion is impeded before reaching CTCF. Single-molecule imaging provides evidence that MCM are physical barriers that constrain cohesin translocation in vitro. Simulations are consistent with MCM as abundant, random barriers with low permeability. We conclude that distinct loop extrusion barriers contribute to shaping 3D genomes. in situ Hi-C and micro-C from HCT116 MCM2-AID cells, treated with DMSO or Auxin, and with or without triptolide treatment