A role for siRNA in X-chromosome dosage compensation in Drosophila melanogaster

Genetics. 2012 Jul;191(3):1023-8. doi: 10.1534/genetics.112.140236. Epub 2012 May 2.

Abstract

Sex-chromosome dosage compensation requires selective identification of X chromatin. How this occurs is not fully understood. We show that small interfering RNA (siRNA) mutations enhance the lethality of Drosophila males deficient in X recognition and partially rescue females that inappropriately dosage-compensate. Our findings are consistent with a role for siRNA in selective recognition of X chromatin.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dosage Compensation, Genetic / genetics*
  • Drosophila Proteins / deficiency
  • Drosophila Proteins / genetics
  • Drosophila melanogaster / genetics*
  • Female
  • Gene Knockdown Techniques
  • Male
  • Mutation
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics*
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / deficiency
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • X Chromosome / genetics*

Substances

  • Drosophila Proteins
  • Pabp2 protein, Drosophila
  • RNA, Small Interfering
  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • Transcription Factors
  • roX1 protein, Drosophila