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E2F activity determines mitosis versus whole-genome duplication in G2-arrested cells

Author

Listed:
  • Kibum Kim

    (Columbia University)

  • Jessica Armand

    (Columbia University
    Columbia University)

  • Sungsoo Kim

    (Columbia University
    Columbia University)

  • Hee Won Yang

    (Columbia University
    Columbia University)

Abstract

While mitogenic signaling is known to regulate cell-cycle entry during the G1 phase, its function in the G2 phase remains elusive. Here we show that mitogenic signaling controls whether G2-arrested cells proceed through mitosis or undergo whole-genome duplication. Although mitogenic signaling is not required for the G2/M transition under normal conditions, it modulates E2F transcriptional activity via c-Myc. When G2 arrest occurs due to CDK4/6 and CDK2 suppression, E2F activity levels determine the status of APC/C inactivation and the CDK2-Rb feedback loop. Upon release from G2 arrest, cells maintaining APC/C inactivation promptly induce CDK2 activation and FoxM1 phosphorylation, driving mitotic entry. Conversely, APC/C reactivation degrades cyclin A and abolishes the CDK2-Rb loop, necessitating CDK4/6 activation for cell-cycle re-entry. This regulatory mechanism mirrors the G1-phase process, resulting in whole-genome duplication. In cancer cells, this process promotes genome instability and oncogene amplification, contributing to aggressive behavior. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized mitogen-dependent checkpoint that governs cell fate in the G2 phase.

Suggested Citation

  • Kibum Kim & Jessica Armand & Sungsoo Kim & Hee Won Yang, 2025. "E2F activity determines mitosis versus whole-genome duplication in G2-arrested cells," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-62061-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62061-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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