Cooperative genetic networks drive embryonic stem cell transition from naive to formative pluripotency

In the mammalian embryo, epiblast cells must exit the naive state and acquire formative pluripotency. This cell state transition is recapitulated by mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which undergo pluripotency progression in defined conditions in vitro. However, our understanding of the molecular cascades and gene networks involved in the exit from naive pluripotency remains fragmentary. Here, we employed a combination of genetic screens in haploid ESCs, CRISPR/Cas9 gene disruption, large-scale transcriptomics and computational systems biology to delineate the regulatory circuits governing naive state exit. Transcriptome profiles for 73 ESC lines deficient for regulators of the exit from naive pluripotency predominantly manifest delays on the trajectory from naive to formative epiblast. We find that gene networks operative in ESCs are also active during transition from pre- to post-implantation epiblast in utero. We identified 496 naive state-associated genes tightly connected to the in vivo epiblast state transition and largely conserved in primate embryos. Integrated analysis of mutant transcriptomes revealed funnelling of multiple gene activities into discrete regulatory modules. Finally, we delineate how intersections with signalling pathways direct this pivotal mammalian cell state transition.

Automated summary

Genetic screens and CRISPR/Cas9 gene disruption were used to study the regulatory circuits governing the exit from naive pluripotency in mammalian embryos. The transcriptome profiles of ESCs deficient for regulators revealed delays in the transition from naive to formative state, with gene networks conserved in primate embryos. Integrated analysis of mutant transcriptomes identified regulatory modules and the role of signalling pathways in directing this cell state transition.