The ApiAP2 factor PfAP2-HC is an integral component of heterochromatin in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Eilidh Carrington, Roel H. M. Cooijmans, Dominique Keller, Christa Geeke Toenhake, Richárd Bártfai, Till S. Voss
Abstract
and recruitment of PfAP2-HC to heterochromatin is independent of its DNA-binding domain but strictly dependent on heterochromatin protein 1. Furthermore, our results suggest that PfAP2-HC functions neither in the regulation of gene expression nor in heterochromatin formation or maintenance. In summary, our findings reveal PfAP2-HC as a core component of heterochromatin in malaria parasites and identify unexpected properties and substantial functional divergence among the members of the ApiAP2 family of regulatory proteins.
Topics & Concepts
HeterochromatinBiologyHeterochromatin protein 1Plasmodium falciparumConstitutive heterochromatinTranscription factorGeneticsGeneDNARegulation of gene expressionCell biologyMalariaChromatinImmunologyMalaria Research and ControlInvertebrate Immune Response Mechanisms