53BP1 oligomerization is independent of its methylation by PRMT1

p53 binding protein 1 (53BP1) participates in the repair of DNA double stranded breaks (DSBs) where it is recruited to or near sites of DNA damage. Although little is known about the biochemical functions of 53BP1, the protein possesses several motifs that are likely important for its role as a DNA damage response element. This includes two BRCA1 C-terminal repeats, tandem Tudor domains, and a variety of phosphorylation sites. Here we show that a glycine-arginine rich (GAR) stretch of 53BP1 lying upstream of the Tudor motifs is methylated. We demonstrate that arginine residues within this region are important for asymmetric methylation by the PRMT1 methyltransferase. We further show that sequences upstream of the Tudor domains that do not include the GAR stretch are sufficient for 53BP1 oligomerization in vivo. Thus, although Tudor domains bind methylated proteins, 53BP1 homo-oligomerization occurs independently of Tudor function. Lastly, we find that deficiencies in 53BP1 generate a hyper-rec phenotype. Collectively, these data provide new insight into 53BP1, an important component in maintaining genomic stability.