- Friday, September 29, 2023
- 2:45 PM–3:35 PM
- Science Building 110
Understanding the non-canonical function of EZH1/2 in gene activation with Visakuo Tsurho Stabilizing Betalains, an Anti-inflammatory Compound in Beets, for Improvement of Cardiovascular Health with James DeVries
Understanding the non-canonical function of EZH1/2 in gene activation
Enhancers of Zeste homolog proteins (EZH1 and EZH2) play a critical role in regulating gene transcription during development. The main function of EZH2 is catalyzing the trimethylation of H3K27 through the PRC2 complex. In cancer, EZH2 is often over-expressed, leading to the silencing of tumor suppressor genes. Interestingly, recent studies have revealed a non-canonical function of EZH2 in upregulating the expression of oncogenes. However, the molecular mechanism remains unknown. Here, we show that EZH1 and EZH2 interact with p300 and activate its histone acetyltransferase (HAT) catalytic activity through an atypical transactivation domain (TAD). We propose that EZH1 and EZH2 can activate gene expression through recruiting and modulating p300 HAT activity.
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Stabilizing Betalains, an Anti-inflammatory Compound in Beets, for Improvement of Cardiovascular Health Betalains are an organic pigment compound found in many vegetables and fruits but in high quantities in beets and beet extracts. They are produced in normal processes in beets. Their primary interest in their antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties is that they aid in cardiovascular health and aid in more efficient oxygen encapsulation by our blood. What causes them to degrade are primarily high temperature and high light environments. My job was to make them more stable by encapsulating them in a carrier fit for human consumption thus retaining their benefits but becoming more stable in said environments. This mattered because the supplements made from betalains are required by some who may be deficient or need to improve their cardiovascular health. |
