GSE173103
Genome-wide mapping of G-quadruplex structures with CUT&Tag
Single-stranded genomic DNA can fold into G-quadruplex (G4) structures or form DNA:RNA hybrids (R loops). Recent evidence suggests that such non-canonical DNA structures affect gene expression, DNA methylation, replication fork progression and genome stability. When and how G4 structures form and are resolved remains unclear. Here we report the use of Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) for mapping native G4 in mammalian cell lines at high resolution and low background. Mild native conditions used for the procedure retain more G4 structures and provide a higher signal-to-noise ratio than ChIP-based methods. We determine the G4 landscape of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC), discovering G4 formation at active and poised promoters and enhancers. We discover that the presence of G4 motifs and G4 structures distinguishes active and primed enhancers in mESCs. Further performing R-loop CUT&Tag, we demonstrate the widespread co-occurence of single-stranded DNA, G4s and R loops, suggesting an intricate interrelation of non-canonical DNA structures, transcription and the formation and turnover of G4s. Overall design: CUT&Tag using G4-specific antibody, clone BG4, in human and mouse cell lines. CUT&Tag using R loop-specific antibody, clone S9.6, in human and mouse cell lines.