To identify novel targets of a histone acetyltransferase Gcn5 in Pichia pastoris

The regulation of gene expression in Pichia pastoris has so far involved study of transcription factors. However, there are factors other than transcription factors affecting mRNA synthesis such as coactivators, enhancers, and chromatin modifiers. This study is a first ever report on epigenetic regulation in Pichia pastoris where, a histone acetyltransferase is reported to regulate transcription of genes involved in utilization of alternate carbon sources. We employed RNA Seq to identify new targets of Gcn5 in methanol medium. Overall design: Wild type and knockout cells were cultured in minimal medium with methanol as a carbon source. Cells were harvested after 14 hours followed by RNA preparation using QIAGEN RNEASY Mini Kit which was then subjected to RNA-SEQ.