Reversible histone methylation regulates brain gene expression and behavior

Horm Behav. 2011 Mar;59(3):383-92. doi: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.08.019. Epub 2010 Sep 15.

Abstract

Epigenetic chromatin remodeling, including reversible histone methylation, regulates gene transcription in brain development and synaptic plasticity. Aberrant chromatin modifications due to mutant chromatin enzymes or chemical exposures have been associated with neurological or psychiatric disorders such as mental retardation, schizophrenia, depression, and drug addiction. Some chromatin enzymes, such as histone demethylases JARID1C and UTX, are coded by X-linked genes which are not X-inactivated in females. The higher expression of JARID1C and UTX in females could contribute to sex differences in brain development and behavior.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Chromatin Assembly and Disassembly
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Female
  • Gene Expression*
  • Histones / genetics*
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / genetics*
  • Mental Disorders / metabolism
  • Methylation
  • Neuronal Plasticity / genetics

Substances

  • Histones