Fig. 8: Schematic model on EHMT2-MBLAC2 signaling axis in rDNA DSB-induced transcriptional silencing and tumorigenesis.
From: The EHMT2-MBLAC2 axis suppresses ribosomal DNA transcription in response to nucleolar DNA damage

EHMT2 suppresses rDNA transcription by either targeting MBLAC2 or regulating deposition of H3K9me2 at chromatin upon rDNA DSBs induction. The EHMT2-MBLAC2 signaling axis promotes rDNA DSB repair, maintains rDNA stability and cell DSB tolerance in response to rDNA breaks. Additionally, DYRK1B facilitates EHMT2 accumulation at nucleolar caps. Inhibition of EHMT2-MBLAC2 axis compromised nucleolar responses, especially rDNA DSB-induced transcriptional silencing and cell viability, shedding light on the importance of rDNA instability in tumorigenesis.