PRC2 complex

Last updated on: 09.09.2024

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

The PRC2 complex (PRC2 stands for: Polycomb Repressive Complex 2) is an important epigenetic regulator that plays a crucial role in genome regulation, particularly in the repression of genes responsible for cell differentiation and other developmental processes. For example, the repressive Polycomb complex 2 silences genes by trimethylating the histone H3K27. PRC2 associates with numerous precursor messenger RNAs (pre-mRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) with a binding preference for G-quadruplex RNA (Song J et al. 2023).

General informationThis section has been translated automatically.

The PRC2 complex consists of several protein-containing subunits. The main components include:

- EZH2 (Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2): The catalytic subunit responsible for the methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27).

- SUZ12: A subunit that is important for the stability of the complex.

- EED (Embryonic ectoderm development): Another subunit involved in the recruitment of EZH2 and in the recognition of already methylated histone H3 (H3K27me3).

PathophysiologyThis section has been translated automatically.

Histone methylation: The PRC2 complex is known to methylate histone H3 at lysine 27, resulting in a dense chromatin structure that represses gene expression.

Epigenetic regulation: By methylating histones, the PRC2 complex affects the accessibility of DNA to transcription factors and other regulatory proteins, leading to long-lasting gene repression.

Development: PRC2 plays a crucial role in embryonic development and in maintaining the pluripotent properties of stem cells.

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Cell differentiation: The PRC2 complex is critical for the maintenance of stem cell identity and the regulation of differentiation processes by inactivating specific genes.

Cancer: Dysregulation or mutations in the components of the PRC2 complex are associated with various types of cancer, as they can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and changes in gene expression.

Last updated on: 09.09.2024