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The ability of cells to perceive and translate versatile cues into differential chromatin and transcriptional states is critical for many biological processes. In plants, timely transition to a flowering state is crucial for successful reproduction. EARLY BOLTING IN SHORT DAY (EBS) is a negative transcriptional regulator that prevents premature flowering in Arabidopsis thaliana. We found that EBS contains bivalent bromo-adjacent homology (BAH)-plant homeodomain (PHD) reader modules that bind H3K27me3 and H3K4me3, respectively. We observed co-enrichment of a subset of EBS-associated genes with H3K4me3, H3K27me3, and Polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2). Notably, EBS adopted an autoinhibition mode to mediate its switch in binding preference between H3K27me3 and H3K4me3. This binding balance was critical because disruption of either EBS-H3K27me3 or EBS-H3K4me3 interaction induced early floral transition. Our results identify a bivalent chromatin reader capable of recognizing two antagonistic histone marks, and we propose a distinct mechanism of interaction between active and repressive chromatin states.

The Foundation for the History of Technology coordinates and supports scientific research into the history of technology. The Foundation develops its own programmes. It has just finished a large programme on Technology in the Netherlands in the Twentieth Century; a seven-volume overview work has been the major output. A new international project Tensions of Europe, the role of technology in the making of Europe has started in 2001. Other projects focus on R&D history of companies and sectors and policy research using a historical perspective. The Foundation develops its projects through building networks of interested scholars, co-ordinating research interests and developing research agendas and fundraising. Often several universities participate in these projects. For more information, see www.histech.nl Layout: PROgrafici, Goes Cover design: Chaim Mesika, Hilversum isbn 90 8555 051 3 nur 680

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