GENETIC CONTROL OF HEMATOPOIETIC CELL DOFFERENTIATION

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Hematopoiesis is a good model system for analyzing regulation of cell differentiation. Using this system, we tried to identify transcription factors that regulate cell differentiation. We analyzed function of NF-E2 and related factors, and accumulated novel as well as unexpected results. These findings should lead to understanding of molecular and genetic regulation of hematopoiesis.(1) To identify novel NF-E2-related transcription factors, we carried out further homology screening. As a result, we succeeded in identifying sixth member of the NF-E2-related factors which we named Nrf3. Its expression profile suggested that Nrf3 may regulate differentiation of hematopoietic cell differentiation. We are now carrying out gene disruption experiment using mice system, together with Prof.Engel.(2) By making nrf2-knockout mice and analyzing its phenotypic changes, we revealed that Nrf2 is a key essentail regulator of phase II de-toxifying system expression.(3) The BTB domain of Bach1 and Bach2 appears to be involved in regulation of chromatin structure. Using atomic force microscopy, we revealed that Bach1, and possible Bach2, function as a novel type of architectural transcription factor that mediate DNA loop formation. As such, Bach1 may be involved in regulation of the globin gene locus control region.