Cell-type-selective induction of c-jun by TAF4b directs ovarian-specific transcription networks

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2006 Feb 21;103(8):2594-9. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0510764103. Epub 2006 Feb 10.

Abstract

Cell-type-selective expression of the TFIID subunit TAF(II)105 (renamed TAF4b) in the ovary is essential for proper follicle development. Although a multitude of signaling pathways required for folliculogenesis have been identified, downstream transcriptional integrators of these signals remain largely unknown. Here, we show that TAF4b controls the granulosa-cell-specific expression of the proto-oncogene c-jun, and together they regulate transcription of ovary-selective promoters. Instead of using cell-type-specific activators, our findings suggest that the coactivator TAF4b regulates the expression of tissue-specific genes, at least in part, through the cell-type-specific induction of c-jun, a ubiquitous activator. Importantly, the loss of TAF4b in ovarian granulosa cells disrupts cellular morphologies and interactions during follicle growth that likely contribute to the infertility observed in TAF4b-null female mice. These data highlight a mechanism for potentiating tissue-selective functions of the basal transcription machinery and reveal intricate networks of gene expression that orchestrate ovarian-specific functions and cell morphology.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental*
  • Gonadotropins / pharmacology
  • Granulosa Cells / metabolism
  • Horses
  • Mice
  • Mice, Mutant Strains
  • Ovarian Follicle / cytology
  • Ovarian Follicle / growth & development*
  • Ovarian Follicle / metabolism
  • Ovary / cytology
  • Ovary / drug effects
  • Ovary / metabolism
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-jun / genetics
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-jun / metabolism*
  • RNA, Messenger / analysis
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • Rats
  • TATA-Binding Protein Associated Factors / genetics
  • TATA-Binding Protein Associated Factors / metabolism
  • TATA-Binding Protein Associated Factors / physiology*
  • Transcription Factor TFIID / genetics
  • Transcription Factor TFIID / metabolism
  • Transcription Factor TFIID / physiology*
  • Transcription, Genetic
  • Up-Regulation

Substances

  • Gonadotropins
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-jun
  • RNA, Messenger
  • TATA-Binding Protein Associated Factors
  • Taf4b protein, mouse
  • Transcription Factor TFIID