Cell-autonomous function of Runx1 transcriptionally regulates megakaryocytic maturation in mice (expression)

RUNX1 transcription factor (TF) is a key regulator of megakaryocytic development and when mutated is associated with familial platelet disorder and predisposition to acute myeloid leukemia (FPD-AML). We used mice lacking Runx1 specifically in megakaryocytes (MKs) to characterize the Runx1-mediated transcriptional program during advanced stages of MK differentiation. Gene expression and chromatin-immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) of Runx1 andp300identified functional Runx1-bound MK enhancers. Runx1/p300 co-bound regions showed significant enrichment in genes important for MK and platelet homeostasis. Runx1-bound regions were highly enriched in RUNX and ETS motifs and to a lesser extent in GATA motif.The data providesthe first example of genome-wide Runx1/p300 occupancy in maturating FL-MK,unravels the Runx1-regulated program controlling MK maturationin vivoandidentifies itsbona fideregulated genes. It advances our understandingof the molecular events that upon mutations in RUNX1 lead to thepredisposition to familial platelet disorders and FPD-AML.

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Pencovich N, Jaschek R, Dicken J, Amit A, Lotem J, Tanay A, Groner Y