Epigenetic processes and DNA repair in embryonic stem cells

Abstract Here, we discuss how epigenetic processes, including posttranslational modifications of histones and posttranscriptional modifications of RNA, differ in pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in comparison with their differentiated counterparts. Additionally, we discuss the specificity of DNA repair epigenetics in ESCs, in which the OCT4 protein play an important role, not only in pluripotency maintenance but also in the DNA damage response. Additionally, in ESC biology, the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA was found to be functionally essential. It is known that m6A RNAs regulate the balance between the self-renewal capability and differentiation properties of ESCs. This posttranscriptional modification, regulating gene expression and the DNA damage response, appears to also be crucial, especially during embryonic development.