SETDB1-Mediated Cell Fate Transition between 2C-Like and Pluripotent States

Abstract

Summary: Known as a histone H3K9 methyltransferase, SETDB1 is essential for embryonic development and pluripotent inner cell mass (ICM) establishment. However, its function in pluripotency regulation remains elusive. In this study, we find that under the “ground state” of pluripotency with two inhibitors (2i) of the MEK and GSK3 pathways, Setdb1-knockout fails to induce trophectoderm (TE) differentiation as in serum/LIF (SL), indicating that TE fate restriction is not the direct target of SETDB1. In both conditions, Setdb1-knockout activates a group of genes targeted by SETDB1-mediated H3K9 methylation, including Dux. Notably, Dux is indispensable for the reactivation of 2C-like state genes upon Setdb1 deficiency, delineating the mechanistic role of SETDB1 in totipotency restriction. Furthermore, Setdb1-null ESCs maintain pluripotent marker (e.g., Nanog) expression in the 2i condition. This “ground state” Setdb1-null population undergoes rapid cell death by activating Ripk3 and, subsequently, RIPK1/RIPK3-dependent necroptosis. These results reveal the essential role of Setdb1 between totipotency and pluripotency transition. : Wu et al. report the essential role of Setdb1 in the cell fate transition between totipotency and pluripotency. Setdb1-KO ESCs activate a group of genes targeted by SETDB1-mediated H3K9 methylation, including Dux, then initiate 2C-like totipotency transition. Moreover, Setdb1-KO triggers ESC necroptosis in the “ground state” by activating Ripk3. Keywords: Setdb1, H3K9 methylation, 2C-like totipotency, necroptosis