An atlas of transcription initiation reveals regulatory principles of gene and transposable element expression in early mammalian development

Transcriptional activation of the embryonic genome (EGA) is a major developmental landmark enabling the embryo to become independent from maternal control. The magnitude and control of transcriptional reprogramming during this event across mammals remains poorly understood. Here, we developed Smart-seq+5' for high sensitivity, full-length transcript coverage and simultaneous capture of 5' transcript information from single cells and single embryos. Using Smart-seq+5', we profiled 34 developmental stages in 5 mammalian species and provide an extensive characterization of the transcriptional repertoire of early development before, during, and after EGA. We demonstrate widespread transposable element (TE)-driven…

• DF
  Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
• E
  EMBO
• DF
  Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt, Helmholtz Zentrum München