The BLMP-1 Transcription Factor Promotes Oscillatory Gene Expression to Achieve Timely Molting

The study investigates the role of the BLMP-1 transcription factor in the gene expression oscillator of C. elegans, which directs the rhythmic accumulation of approximately 25% of the transcriptome to control molting, a process of rhythmic skin regeneration. The researchers found that BLMP-1, which is orthologous to the mammalian transcription repressor PRDM1, is crucial for timely molting and oscillatory gene expression. They suggest that BLMP-1 has a dual function in shaping oscillatory gene expression and linking it to a set of direct targets, which ensures cuticular integrity. The study also indicates that the mammalian PRDM1/BLIMP1 promotes regular cycles of postnatal hair follicle regeneration, suggesting a potentially conserved clock mechanism in control of rhythmic skin regeneration.