Insight into convergence of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in reproductive organs in Arabidopsis

Abstract

Mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of gene expression are inter-connected to ensure maintenance of DNA methylation. However, regulation of DNA methylation which allows new epigenetic patterns in various tissues during plant reproduction has remained incompletely understood. Recent reports have provided new and interesting discoveries in the field of epigenetic mechanisms regulating development of reproductive organs in the model plant species – Arabidopsis thaliana. As a consequence, an important, novel insight was gained into the role of several regulators, including GENETICS DETERMINES EPIGENETICS1 (GDE1) protein, as well as REPRODUCTIVE MERISTEM (REM) and REPRODUCTIVE MERISTEM INSTRUCTS METHYLATION (RIMs) transcription factors in the emergence of differential DNA methylation and small interfering RNA (siRNA) expression patterns in ovules and anthers during reproductive development in this model species. In this emerging view, genetic (transcription factors and recognized DNA motifs) and epigenetic (siRNA and DNA methylation) mechanisms converge to enable organ-specific DNA methylation during reproductive plant development.