Histone methyltransferase SETDB1 silenced SINE B2 retrotransposons and maintained mitotic cell cycle of neural progenitor cells (WGBS)

Short interspersed nuclear element (SINE) B2 are a type of DNA retrotransposon that organize three-dimensional genome during development. Containing binding sites for CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF), SINE_B2 serve as domain boundary elements that control chromatin state and initiate transcription of critical developmental genes. However, it is still unclear how SINE_B2 are regulated during neurodevelopment. Our findings indicate novel mechanisms that modulate critical DNA retrotransposon activity, maintain chromosome conformation and contribute to central nervous system development. Examination of whole genome DNA methylation in wildtype (WT) and Setdb1-KO (KO) neural progenitor cells.