Polo-like kinase 1 maintains transcription and chromosomal accessibility during mitosis

Transcription persists at low levels in mitotic cells and plays essential roles in mitotic fidelity and chromosomal dynamics. However, the detailed regulatory network of mitotic transcription remains largely unresolved. Here, we report the novel role of Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) in maintaining mitotic transcription. Using 5-ethynyl uridine (5-EU) labeling of nascent RNAs, we found that Plk1 inhibition leads to significant downregulation of nascent transcription in prometaphase cells. Chromatin-localized Plk1 activity is required for transcription regulation and mitotic fidelity. Plk1 sustains global chromosomal accessibility in mitosis, especially at promoter and transcription start site (promoter-TSS) regions, facilitating transcription factor binding and ensuring proper transcriptional activity. We identified SMC4, a common subunit of condensin I and II, as a potential Plk1 substrate. Plk1 activity is fundamental to these processes across non-transformed and transformed cell lines, underscoring its critical role in cell cycle regulation. This study elucidates a novel regulatory mechanism of global mitotic transcription, advancing our understanding of cell cycle control.